Basic Topic-Comment Sentences
Use simple topic-fronting to sound more natural in beginner conversations.
Pattern
Topic + comment
Start with what you are talking about, then say something about it.
这个菜，我很喜欢。
When to use Basic Topic-Comment Sentences
Chinese often names the topic first, then gives a comment about it. The topic does not need to be the grammatical subject of the English translation.
那个人，我不认识。
That person, I do not know them.
这个菜很好吃。
This dish is tasty.
中文，我想学。
Chinese, I want to study it.
这本书，我没有看。
This book, I have not read it.
Common traps
- Do not overuse topic-comment when a normal subject-verb sentence is clearer.
- The topic should already be identifiable in context.
- Avoid repeating the topic awkwardly inside the comment.
Targeted drill
Practice this exact pattern before moving on.
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