Need and requirement
In words like 需要 and 必要, 要 (yào) expresses need, necessity, or something not serious.
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Common patterns, words, and short phrases that show how 要 works in context.
In words like 需要 and 必要, 要 (yào) expresses need, necessity, or something not serious.
HSK words that contain this character.
Real-world example sentences demonstrating how 要 is used in context
A woman (女) grasping her waist (覀) — to demand or need something essential.
need
not important; not serious It doesn't matter; never mind
In words like 重要 and 主要, 要 (yào) marks importance, priority, or degree.
less important; secondary; subordinate
These are high-frequency learner expressions built around a condition or an alternative.
don't!
nearly at the point of (doing sth); about to (do sth)
I want a glass of water.
I need a cup of coffee.
I am going to Beijing tomorrow.
The teacher requires us to finish homework on time.
This meeting is very important.
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