Learn three advanced grammatical structures using 连 to express emphasis: “not even…”, “not only… but also…”, and “not even the very basic/minimum expected”
1 Structure 1: “Not Even…” with Number-Phrase
The structure Topic + 连 + Number-Measure Phrase + 都… is used to emphasize that not even the smallest amount or quantity is present or possible. This structure expresses extreme lack or inability.
It often uses minimal quantity words like “one” (一), “a little” (一点儿), or “a single” (一句) to emphasize the complete absence or inability.
Emphasis Visualization
not even
Complete Sentence: 钱包里连一块钱都没有。
(There is not even 1 yuan in the wallet.)
Examples: “Not Even…”
Key Grammar Points
These phrases emphasize the minimum possible amount:
The Topic sets the context for the emphasized statement:
The topic helps explain WHY the situation is so extreme.
2 Structure 2: “Not Only… But Also…” with 不但…连…都/也
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3 Structure 3: “Not Even the Very Basic/Minimum Expected”
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Structure Comparison and Practice
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