Definition
须 (xū) is a formal, literary verb meaning 'must, have to' — it is used in official notices, instructions, and written rules. It is much more formal than 得 (děi), which is everyday spoken Chinese, and stronger than 应该 (yīnggāi 'should'). 须 is almost never used in casual conversation.
verb
musthave to (formal, literary)
Easily confused
- 需xūsound-aliketo need, to require
- 许xǔsound-aliketo allow, to permit
- 虚xūsound-alike(adjective) empty; void; unoccupied
- 续xùsound-aliketo continue (a contract, subscription, or membership)
- 序xùsound-alike(bound form) order; sequence
Examples
- 须。Cǐ shì xū lìjí chǔlǐ.This matter must be dealt with immediately.
- 须。Shēnqǐng zhě xū tígōng wánzhěng cáiliào.Applicants must provide complete materials.
- 须。Rù guǎn xū chūshì zhèngjiàn.You must present your ID to enter the museum.
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