Expressing "even" with "shenzhi"

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甚至 (shènzhì) is similar to "even" in English and is used for emphasis. Like "even" it can be used quite directly or in a more subtle manner. When used more subtly it acts to supplement the speaker’s initial thought, creating the impression that the speaker has realized half way through his statement that he hasn’t gone far enough, and wants to take the idea one step further.

甚至 used for direct emphasis

Structure

甚至 + [focus of emphasis]

Here 甚至 is used in a more direct manner.

Examples

  • 他 骑 自行车 的 速度 甚至 比 汽车 还 快。
  • 他 是 个 探险家,他 甚至 去 过 北极。
  • 在 中国,不但 教育 水平 高 的 人 会 背诵 唐诗, 甚至 连 小 孩子 都 会。

Note the phrase following 甚至 often uses 连, 都 or 也 to add further emphasis.

甚至 used for more subtle emphasis

Structure

甚至 + [supplementary thought]

Examples

  • 前 女友 的 照片 让 他 感到 遗憾, 甚至 痛苦。
  • 我 觉得 两天 内 完成 这个 任务 很 难,甚至 是 不 可能 的。

See also

Sources and further reading

Books