Learn the three main meanings and usage patterns of the Chinese preposition 跟 (gēn): together with, from, to/with
1 Introduction to Chinese Prepositions
Chinese Prepositions function like English Prepositions, defining when, where, how, for whom, with whom, etc. In the upcoming three lessons, we will introduce some of the most commonly-used prepositions in Chinese. Let’s start with 跟 (gēn).
Basic Position of 跟 in Sentences
As a preposition, 跟 typically appears between the subject and the verb, introducing the person or thing that the subject interacts with.
Relationship Structure
Complete Sentence: 我跟你说话。
(I speak with you.)
Three Main Meanings of 跟 as a Preposition
跟 = together with
I go to eat with friends.
跟 = from
I learn Chinese from the teacher.
跟 = to or with
I speak to you.
2 跟 = Together With
When 跟 means “together with,” it indicates joint action or accompaniment. The subject (A) performs an action together with another person (B).
Examples: 跟 = Together With
With 一起 (yìqǐ)
When expressing “together with,” 一起 is often added to emphasize the joint nature of the action:
I go together with friends.
- 我跟妈妈一起做饭。 – I cook together with mom.
- 他跟同学一起学习。 – He studies together with classmates.
- 我们跟老师一起讨论。 – We discuss together with the teacher.
Common Verbs with This Meaning
Verbs often used with 跟 meaning “together with”:
- 吃 (chī) – eat: 跟家人吃饭
- 玩 (wán) – play: 跟孩子玩
- 工作 (gōngzuò) – work: 跟同事工作
- 旅行 (lǚxíng) – travel: 跟朋友旅行
3 跟 = From
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4 跟 = To
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Practice Exercises
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