About

The word "要么" is formed by combining the character "要", which in this context acts as a modal verb indicating a conditional or suggestive sense (like "if one wants" or "should"), with the character "么", a sentence-final particle used here to create a colloquial tone and reinforce the alternative being presented. This fusion results in a conjunction used to introduce a choice or an alternative option, equivalent to "or" or "either... or..." in English.

Example Sentences Hide

我们要么去公园,要么在家。

Wǒmen yàome qù gōngyuán, yàome zài jiā.

We either go to the park or stay at home.

周末要么看电影,要么逛商场。

Zhōumò yàome kàn diànyǐng, yàome guàng shāngchǎng.

On weekends, either watch movies or go shopping at the mall.

如果下雨,要么带伞,要么打车。

Rúguǒ xià yǔ, yàome dài sǎn, yàome dǎ chē.

If it rains, either bring an umbrella or take a taxi.

要么现在努力,要么将来后悔。

Nǐ yàome xiànzài nǔlì, yàome jiānglái hòuhuǐ.

You either work hard now, or regret in the future.

在公司里,你要么遵守规则,要么面对后果,没有其他选择。

Zài gōngsī lǐ, nǐ yàome zūnshǒu guīzé, yàome miànduì hòuguǒ, méiyǒu qítā xuǎnzé.

In the company, you either follow the rules or face the consequences, with no other choice.

Word Definition - 要么

yào me or; either one or the other

Individual Character Details