总是 zǒngshì

总是（zǒngshì）means “always; all the time”. "总是" is an adverb placed before a verb or adjective to say that something happens all the time or repeatedly. Formation: 总是 + V/Adj

always; all the time

HSK3

Formation

总是 + V/Adj

Explanation

"总是" is an adverb placed before a verb or adjective to say that something happens all the time or repeatedly. It often carries a slight tone of complaint when describing an annoying habit, similar to "always" or "keeps on".

Examples

他上课总是迟到。
tā shàng kè zǒngshì chídào.
He is always late for class.
妈妈总是担心我吃不好。
māma zǒngshì dānxīn wǒ chī bù hǎo.
Mom is always worried that I don't eat well.

Note

Place "总是" before the verb, not at the end. It stresses constancy more strongly than "经常" (often).

FAQ

总是 — what does it mean and how is it used?

always; all the time. "总是" is an adverb placed before a verb or adjective to say that something happens all the time or repeatedly. It often carries a slight tone of complaint when describing an annoying habit, similar to "always" or "keeps on".

总是 — how do you form it?

总是 + V/Adj

总是 — any usage notes?

Place "总是" before the verb, not at the end. It stresses constancy more strongly than "经常" (often).

Learn in the app →