adjective / verb / preposition HSK 1
Traditional 對
correct · right · to face · toward · to treat · pair
Meaning
对 is one of the most versatile and frequently used characters in Mandarin. As an adjective, it means 'correct' or 'right' (opposite of 错). As a verb, it means 'to face' or 'to match up'. As a preposition, it introduces the target or recipient of an action, similar to English 'to/toward/for'.
Usage
Native speakers use 对 constantly in daily conversation. When answering questions, 对 alone means 'correct/yes'. The pattern '对...来说' (duì...lái shuō) means 'for/to someone'. 对 also appears in 对不起 (sorry) and countless other expressions. The preposition usage is crucial for intermediate learners.
Examples
- 01你说得对。.What you said is correct.
- 02我对中国文化很感兴趣。.I'm very interested in Chinese culture.
Common collocations
- 对不起sorry; excuse me
- 对...感兴趣...to be interested in...
- 对...来说...for...; as far as...is concerned
- 对了by the way; that's right
Antonyms
Origin
The traditional form 對 shows 業 (standing) and 寸 (hand), suggesting the idea of standing face-to-face or matching up properly.