Scope Adverbs 只 and 到处 | HSK 3 Chinese Grammar Guide

Pattern

scope adverb + predicate

Use this HSK 3 pattern to make sentence structure, scope, or emphasis explicit instead of relying on word-for-word English order.

我只买了一张票。

When to use Scope Adverbs 只 and 到处

Read scope adverb + predicate as a sentence tool, not just as vocabulary. First locate the main action or claim, then ask what 只 adds to it.

他只喝水。

He only drinks water.

我只认识他一个人。

I only know him.

Do not translate scope adverb + predicate mechanically from English; check the Chinese word order first.
Keep 只 close to the part of the sentence it controls.
Do not overuse the pattern in every sentence; use it when it adds a clear role.

Entraînez-vous sur ce schéma exact avant de continuer.

我买了一张票

I only bought one ticket

zhǐ

Missing grammar piece

Sens

only