ComplementsHSK 5
Advanced degree complements
Advanced degree complements like 得很, 得不得了, 得要命, and 得不行 are placed after 得 to express an extreme degree of an adjective or verb, much stronger than 很. They are often used in informal speech to emphasize intensity or annoyance. Be careful not to overuse them in formal contexts, as they can sound overly dramatic.
Structure
Adj. + 得 + [Degree Complement]
Degree complements include 很, 不得了, 要命, and 不行.
Examples
- 这个孩子自私得很。Zhè ge hái zi zì sī dé hěn.This child is super selfish.
- 我爸爸固执得不得了。Wǒ bà ba gù zhí dé bù dé liǎo.My father is awfully stubborn.
- 赢了比赛以后，他骄傲得不得了。Yíng le bǐ sài yǐ hòu, tā jiāo ào dé bù dé liǎo.He was terribly proud after he won the competition.
- 我儿子淘气得要命。Wǒ ér zi táo qì dé yào mìng.My son is incredibly naughty.
- 我的牙痛得不行。Wǒ de yá tòng dé bù xíng.My teeth hurt so badly!