Chinese grammar is quite simple, so most of it can be learned through context. If you already have a basic understanding of Chinese grammar, then I recommend learning new grammar patterns through input. You can gather input through any Chinese language resource, such as books or TV shows. While the grammar of most words can be learned through context, if you come across a new word and don’t understand how it’s used, copy and paste it into Google and write “grammar” after it. For example, let’s look up “根据 grammar,” like in the image below. You will see several websites with grammar explanations pop up. I’m going to use the top one for the Chinese Grammar Wiki.
When I open the website, I will see a quick explanation of the grammar point, including meaning, how to use it, and example sentences. This is pretty standard across most grammar websites.
If you would like to review this grammar point again later, you can copy a few of the example sentences into your Anki deck for Chinese sentences. If you don’t have the Chinese sentences decks downloaded or don’t know how to use Anki, you can find out more through the links below.
If you are still struggling with the grammar of a sentence, you can ask ChatGPT to explain it to you. You may have to ask a few times in different ways to get the answer you want, but you can get a grammar explanation in English or Chinese.
Because Chinese grammar is quite straight forward there aren’t many resources for learning grammar. Learning through input and practicing through writing are the best ways for you to improve your Chinese grammar. If you would like to test your grammar knowledge, HSK practice tests are a great resource.
Grammar Websites
Chinese Grammar Wiki
The Chinese Grammar Wiki is exactly what it sounds like. It is a website of the common grammar points used in the Chinese language, and each grammar point includes an explanation and example sentences.
Dig Mandarin
Dig Mandarin has a bunch of free HSK tests that you can use to review grammar. Each practice test comes with answers but unfortunately do not contain any explanations. Luckily, you can just copy any problem you have questions about into ChatGPT and it will explain why the answer is what it is.
Mandarin Mania
Mandarin Mania also has a lot of practice exams you can use to review grammar or test your Chinese in general.
Grammar YouTube Channels
Chinese Zero to Hero
Free To Learn Chinese
For more advanced learners, Free to Learn Chinese is a great YouTube Channel with lots of grammar explanations and Chinese lessons.
