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。If you want to study, study well, don't just do it so-so.
• 要 买 就 快 买，我们 来不及 了。If you're going to buy it, buy it. We don't have much time left.
• 这 件 事情 要 做 就 做 完，不然 会 很 麻烦。If your going to do this, finish it, otherwise it could become a problem.
• 要 想 吃 就 吃，不用 客气。If you want to eat, go ahead an eat. You don't need to be so polite.

See also

• "If…, then…" with "ruguo…, jiu…"

Sources and further reading

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HSK5