How to use 的 | Expressing Possession in Chinese

One of the fundamental aspects of Chinese grammar is the use of particles, and one particle that holds significant importance in everyday communication is “的” (ㄉㄜ˙ – de). This small but mighty character plays a crucial role in expressing possession and relationships between nouns. Mastering the usage of “的” is essential for anyone looking to enhance their proficiency in Mandarin Chinese.

The Basics of 的

“的” is a versatile particle that serves multiple functions in Chinese, but one of its primary roles is to indicate possession. It can be used to show the relationship between two nouns, where one noun possesses or is associated with another noun. Think of “的” as a bridge that connects two nouns to establish a connection of ownership, association, or description.

Expressing Possession

To express possession using “的,” follow this simple structure:

Possessor + 的 + Possessed

Here, the “Possessor” is the entity that owns or is related to the thing being possessed, and the “Possessed” is the object being owned or associated with.

Examples:

1. 我的書 (ㄨㄛˇ ㄉㄜ˙ ㄕㄨ – wǒ de shū) – My book
   • “我” is the Possessor, meaning “I” or “me.”
   • “書” is the Possessed, meaning “book.”
2. 他的手機 (ㄊㄚ ㄉㄜ˙ ㄕㄡˇ ㄐㄧ – tā de shǒu jī) – His phone
   • “他” is the Possessor, meaning “he” or “him.”
   • “手機” is the Possessed, meaning “phone.”
3. 他們的眼鏡 (ㄊㄚ ㄇㄣˊ ㄉㄜ˙ ㄧㄢˇ ㄐㄧㄥˋ – tā men de yǎn jìng) – Their glasses
   • “他們” is the Possessor, meaning “they” or “them.”
   • “眼鏡” is the Possessed, meaning “glasses.”

When to Skip “的”: Close Possession

Indicating ownership in Chinese is done using the particle 的. However, in situations where specific (particularly close) connections are a factor, omitting the 的 feels more naturally.

You have the option to exclude 的 under the following circumstances:

1. When there exists a close personal relationship (family, intimate friends, romantic partners).
2. When there is an institutional or organizational affiliation (school, workplace).

Examples:

1. 我爺爺 (ㄨㄛˇ ㄧㄝˊ ㄧㄝˊ – wǒ yé yé) – My granddad
2. 你男朋友 (ㄋㄧˇ ㄋㄢˊ ㄆㄥˊ ㄧㄡˇ – nǐ nán péng yǒu) – Your boyfriend
3. 我學校 (ㄨㄛˇ ㄒㄩㄝˊ ㄒㄧㄠˋ – wǒ xué xiào) – My school

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“的” is a fundamental particle in Mandarin Chinese that allows for the expression of possession, relationships, and descriptions. By mastering its usage, you’ll be able to navigate conversations and convey ownership and associations with ease. Keep in mind that while it’s important to understand the basic structure, observing native speakers and practicing in context will solidify your grasp of this essential aspect of the Chinese language.