Basic/Simple Sentence PatternsHSK 4
Alternative existential sentences
When describing the location and state of something, you can use a verb with 着 after a place word (Place + Verb + 着 + Noun). This pattern is an alternative to 有 or 是 existential sentences and focuses on the ongoing posture or arrangement of the object.
Structure
Place + Verb + 着 + Noun Phrase
The verb should describe a physical position or placement (e.g., 放, 站, 坐).
Examples
- 桌子上放着一本书。Zhuō zi shàng fàng zhe yì běn shū.There is a book on the desk.
- 大厅里站着一些警察。Dà tīng lǐ zhàn zhe yì xiē jǐng chá.There are several policemen standing in the hall.
- 教室里坐着两百多个学生。Jiào shì lǐ zuò zhe liǎng bǎi duō gè xué shēng.There are more than two hundred students sitting in the classroom.
- 地下室里堆着很多旧东西。Dì xià shì lǐ duī zhe hěn duō jiù dōng xī.There is lots of old stuff piled up in the basement.
- 楼下停着几辆车。Lóu xià tíng zhe jǐ liàng chē.A few cars are parked downstairs.