Basic/Simple Sentence PatternsHSK 4
Expressing "how often"
Use 多长时间 followed by the verb and 一次 to ask how frequently someone does an action. This pattern focuses on the time interval between repeated events, so the verb must be one that can recur. Avoid placing 一次 before the verb—the correct order is Verb + 一次.
Structure
Subj. + 多长时间 + Verb + 一次 (+ Obj.)
Examples
- 你多长时间踢一次球？Nǐ duō cháng shí jiān tī yí cì qiú?How often do you play soccer?
- 你多长时间剪一次头发？Nǐ duō cháng shí jiān jiǎn yí cì tóu fa?How often do you cut your hair?
- 你多长时间刮一次胡子？Nǐ duō cháng shí jiān guā yí cì hú zi?How often do you shave?