老是 (lǎo shì) — always (used for annoying or undesirable repeated actions)

Definition

老是 means 'always' but carries a complaining tone — the repeated action is annoying or unwanted. 总是 is neutral and can describe any habit, good or bad.

adverb
always (used for annoying or undesirable repeated actions)

Examples

  • 老是
    Tā lǎo shì chí dào, lǎo bǎn hěn bù shǒu shí.
    He is always late and very unpunctual.
  • 老是
    Nǐ lǎo shì zài kè shàng shuō huà, huì yǐng xiǎng bié rén.
    You're always talking in class, and it affects others.
  • 老是
    Mā ma lǎo shì dān xīn wǒ yí gè rén chū mén.
    Mom is always worried about me going out alone.

Grammar

Browse more HSK 4 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.