Learn how to express sequential actions in Chinese using the “after doing X, then Y” pattern with 完 and 就
1 Basic Sentence Pattern
When you want to say “After I did something, then I did something else” in Chinese, you can use this simple pattern: Add “完 (wán)” after the verb in the first clause, then insert “就 (jiù)” at the beginning of the second clause.
Sequential Action Flow
Complete Sentence: 小明吃完饭，就去跑步了。
(After eating, Xiao Ming went jogging.)
The Function of 完 (wán)
完 (wán) literally means “to finish” or “to complete.” When added after a verb, it indicates that the action has been completed.
Key point: 完 is attached directly to the verb to indicate completion of that specific action
The Function of 就 (jiù)
就 (jiù) means “then” or “immediately after.” It connects two clauses and shows the second action follows the first.
Key point: 就 signals that the second action happens immediately after the first one
2 Indicating Past Actions
To indicate that the actions have already happened in the past, add “了 (le)” at the end of the second clause. In this pattern, 了 indicates that both actions have been completed.
Past Tense Examples
| Structure | Chinese | English Translation | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| S + V + 完 + O + 就 + V + 了 |
小明吃完饭，就去跑步了。
|
After eating, Xiao Ming went jogging. | |
| S + V + 完 + O + 就 + V + 了 |
她看完电视，就睡觉了。
|
After watching TV, she went to sleep. |
When the Second Clause Has Its Own Subject
If there is a subject stated in the second clause, “就” should be placed after that subject, not at the beginning of the clause.
Important Rule: Placement of 就
The placement of 就 depends on whether the second clause has its own subject:
This rule is consistent and must be followed for grammatical correctness.
3 Indicating Future Actions
Unlock this content and all our premium features with a membership. Get access to graded HSK video lessons, grammar breakdowns, vocab lists, online tests, and more!
Already a member? Sign in.
4 Indicating Habitual Actions
Unlock this content and all our premium features with a membership. Get access to graded HSK video lessons, grammar breakdowns, vocab lists, online tests, and more!
Already a member? Sign in.
Practice Exercises
Unlock this content and all our premium features with a membership. Get access to graded HSK video lessons, grammar breakdowns, vocab lists, online tests, and more!
Already a member? Sign in.