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HSK 2.0 Level 5+ HSK 3.0 Level 5+ 7 min read

Alternatives with 要么...要么

Use 要么...要么 to frame choices, tradeoffs, and decisions at HSK 5.

Pattern

要么 + option A, 要么 + option B

Present two clear alternatives instead of an open list.

我们要么改方案，要么推迟发布。

When to use Alternatives with 要么...要么

要么...要么 sets up alternatives. It usually implies the speaker wants one option chosen rather than leaving everything open.

你要么现在决定，要么明天再谈。

Either decide now or discuss it again tomorrow.

这两个选择要么省钱，要么省时间。

These two choices either save money or save time.

他要么亲自参加，要么派代表来。

He will either attend personally or send a representative.

要么接受条件，要么重新谈判。

Either accept the conditions or renegotiate.

Common traps

  • Use 要么 before both alternatives for a balanced sentence.
  • Do not use 还是 in statements; 还是 is for questions or preference contexts.
  • Keep the alternatives parallel so the choice is easy to compare.

Targeted drill

Practice this exact pattern before moving on.

我们 改方案，要么推迟发布。

Missing grammar piece
Meanings
either; or