Understanding '就' and '才' in Chinese Sequencing
In Chinese, the words '就' (jiù) and '才' (cái) are used as adverbs to show the order of actions or events. They help us understand when something happens in relation to something else. Even though they are small words, they can change the meaning of a sentence in a big way.
'就' is like saying 'as soon as' or 'then' in English. It shows that something happens quickly after another thing or that it is expected.
Important Points
- Indicates quick action: '就' is used when one action follows another quickly.
- Shows logical sequence: It can show that one thing naturally leads to another.
- Expresses certainty: It can make the sentence sound more certain or definite.
Examples
- 我吃完饭就去睡觉。
- 他一到家就开始做作业。
- 你说了我就明白了。
'才' is like saying 'not until' or 'only then' in English. It shows that something happens later than expected or after certain conditions are met.
Important Points
- Indicates delay: '才' is used when one action happens after a delay.
- Shows conditions: It can show that something only happens if certain conditions are met.
- Expresses emphasis: It can emphasize that something is happening later than usual.
Examples
- 他五岁才开始上学。
- 我们等了很久，车才来了。
- 你做完作业才可以玩游戏。
Key Differences Between '就' and '才'
'就' and '才' are like opposites. '就' is for things that happen quickly or as expected, while '才' is for things that happen slowly or later than expected.
Important Points
- '就' is for quick and expected actions.
- '才' is for delayed and conditional actions.