Expressing existence in a place with "zai"

The verb 在 (zài) expresses existence in a place, similar to the English "to be located in".

Structure

The verb 在 is used to express existence in a place. English does not have a verb that covers this, and instead uses "to be" with a preposition. In Chinese, 在 covers both of these.

Subject + 在 + Place

Remember that you don't need another verb in this construction. It can be tempting to try use 是, as English uses "to be", but this is not correct. 在 is the only verb needed.

Examples

• 我 在 上海。I'm in Shanghai.
• 他们 在 英国。We're in England.
• 他 在 超市。He's at the supermarket.
• 她 在 邮局。She's at the post office.

See also

• "Zai" following verbs
• Using "zai" with verbs

Sources and further reading

Books

• Chinese: An Essential Grammar, Second Edition (pp. 85-7) →buy
• New Practical Chinese Reader 2 (新实用汉语课本2) (pp. 154) →buy