Conditions with "yao" and "jiu"

The "要...就" grammar structure can be used to express the same meaning as "如果...就" However,"要...就" is more intense and resolute, similar to imperative sentences (command sentences). Therefore, "要...就" sentences typically do not have a subject, but they can have a topic. This grammar form is similar to the English "If you want to (verb) just (verb)..."

Structure

要 Verb 就 Verb

Topic + 要 Verb 就 Verb + Complement

Examples

• 要 学 就 学 好，不 要 马马虎虎。
• 要 买 就 快 买，我们 来不及 了。
• 这 件 事情 要 做 就 做 完，不然 会 很 麻烦。
• 要 想 吃 就 吃，不用 客气。

See also

• "If…, then…" with "ruguo…, jiu…"

Sources and further reading

HSK5