Definition
假使 (jiǎ shǐ) is a formal, literary conjunction meaning 'if, supposing' — used mainly in writing, legal documents, or careful speech. It is more formal than the common 如果 (rú guǒ) and slightly more literary than 假如 (jiǎ rú). Unlike 万一 (wàn yī), which implies a remote possibility to prepare for, 假使 simply presents a hypothetical condition.
conjunction
ifin casesupposing (formal, literary)
Easily confused
- 驾驶jià shǐsound-aliketo drive (a vehicle); to pilot (a ship or aircraft)
- 架势jià shisound-alikeposture, stance (physical or figurative)
- 家世jiā shìsound-alikefamily background
Examples
- 假使，。jiǎ shǐ nǐ zǎo yìdiǎn gàosu wǒ, wǒ jiù bú huì chídào le.If you had told me earlier, I wouldn't have been late.
- 假使，。jiǎ shǐ míngtiān bú xià yǔ, wǒmen jiù qù gōngyuán sànbù.If it doesn't rain tomorrow, we'll go for a walk in the park.
- 假使，。jiǎ shǐ zhège jìhuà shībài, wǒmen hái yǒu bèiyòng fāng'àn.Supposing this plan fails, we still have a backup plan.
Grammar
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