Definition
只有 (zhǐ yǒu) is a conjunction meaning 'only if, only when' — it introduces the one condition that must be met for a result to happen, and always pairs with 才 in the second clause. It is stronger and more exclusive than 只是 (zhǐ shì 'merely, just'), which states a fact without setting a condition; 除非 (chú fēi 'unless') is the opposite perspective, focusing on the exception that would prevent the result.
conjunction
only ifonly when (used with 才 to indicate a necessary condition)
Examples
- 只有,。zhǐ yǒu nǔlì xuéxí, cái néng qǔdé hǎo chéngjì.Only by studying hard can you get good grades.
- 只有,。zhǐ yǒu nǐ qīnzì lái, wǒ cái huì xiāngxìn.Only if you come in person will I believe it.
- 只有,。zhǐ yǒu jiānchí duànliàn, cái néng bǎochí jiànkāng.Only by persisting in exercise can you stay healthy.
Grammar
Browse more HSK 3 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.