Definition
只要 (zhǐ yào) is a conjunction meaning 'as long as' or 'provided that' — it introduces a condition that, if met, guarantees a result. It is different from 但愿 (dàn yuàn), which expresses a wish or hope for something that may not happen (e.g., 'if only'). 只要 states a realistic condition; 但愿 states a desire.
conjunction
provided thatas long asso long as
Examples
- 只要，。zhǐ yào tiānqì hǎo, wǒmen jiù qù gōngyuán.As long as the weather is good, we'll go to the park.
- 只要，。zhǐ yào rènzhēn xuéxí, jiù néng kǎo hǎo.As long as you study seriously, you can do well on the exam.
- 只要，。zhǐ yào nǐ yǒu shíjiān, jiù lái bāng wǒ.Come help me as long as you have time.
Grammar
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