PrepositionsHSK 4
Using 对 with verbs
对 is used to indicate the target or recipient of an action, often a person. It is placed before the verb, but only certain verbs (e.g., 笑, 叫, 说话) can be used this way, so avoid overgeneralizing.
Structure
Subj. + 对 + Person + Verb
The verb is limited; it typically expresses an action directed at someone, like smiling, talking, or lying.
Examples
- 宝宝对我笑了。Bǎobao duì wǒ xiào le.The baby smiled at me.
- 小狗在对你叫。Xiǎogǒu zài duì nǐ jiào.The dog is barking at you.
- 你不应该这样对父母说话。Nǐ bù yīnggāi zhèyàng duì fùmǔ shuōhuà.You shouldn't talk to your parents this way.
- 他总是对老师撒谎。Tā zǒngshì duì lǎoshī sāhuǎng.He always lies to his teachers.
- 不要对孩子发脾气。Bùyào duì háizi fā píqi.Don't lose your temper with the child.