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HSK 2.0 Level 5+ HSK 3.0 Level 7–9+ 6 min read

该X就X，该Y就Y for “Do Each Thing at the Right Time”

Use 该学习就学习，该玩就玩 to say that each thing should be done when its time comes, without fuss or hesitation.

Pattern

该 + X +（就）+ X，该 + Y +（就）+ Y

Repeat each verb around 就 after 该 to say “when it’s time to X, just X; when it’s time to Y, just Y.”

该学习就学习，该玩就玩，这样才能学得好。

When to use 该X就X，该Y就Y for “Do Each Thing at the Right Time”

该 means “should” or “it’s time to.” In 该X就X, the same verb appears twice: 该睡觉就睡觉 means “when it’s time to sleep, just sleep.” Put two of these side by side and you get advice about doing each thing at its proper time.

周末别想作业了，该休息就休息。

Forget about homework at the weekend. When it’s time to rest, rest.

吃饭的时候该吃就吃，别总看手机。

At mealtimes, just eat. Don’t keep looking at your phone.

这件事该怎么办就怎么办，不用问我。

Just handle this the way it should be handled. You don’t need to ask me.

他做事很有原则，该说就说，该做就做。

He has firm principles: he speaks up when he should and acts when he should.

Common traps

  • Use the same verb on both sides: 该吃就吃, not 该吃就喝.
  • Don’t confuse 该X就X (the right time) with 想X就X (whenever you like).
  • 就 can be dropped in casual speech (该吃吃), but keep it when you are unsure.

Targeted drill

Practice this exact pattern before moving on.

周末别想作业了，该休息 休息

Forget about homework at the weekend. When it’s time to rest, rest
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