Definition
留下来 is a resultative verb phrase formed by 留 (to keep/leave) plus the directional complement 下来 (downward/outcome). You use it when someone or something stays behind instead of leaving, or when you leave a physical object or an abstract impression (like a memory or debt) behind. The complement 下来 emphasizes that the result is fixed or permanent.
r.v.
to stay behindto remain (instead of leaving)to leave behind (a physical object or abstract result)
Examples
- ，留下来。Nǐmen xiān zǒu, wǒ liú xià lái yíhuìr.You go ahead, I'll stay behind for a while.
- 留下来，。Zhè běn shū shì lǎoshī liú xià lái de, ràng wǒ zhuǎnjiāo gěi nǐ.This book is what the teacher left behind; he asked me to pass it to you.
- 留下来。Tā de yǎnjiǎng gěi guānzhòng liú xià lái le shēnkè de yìnxiàng.His speech left a deep impression on the audience.
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