又

• Pinyin: yòu
• Hanzi breakdown: 又 = pictograph of a right hand, meaning 'again/also'

Meaning

Again; and also; once more. Indicates repetition of an action that has already happened.

Key distinction from 再: 又 is used for actions that have already repeated (past), while 再 is for future repetition. 又 can also connect two descriptions: 又大又甜 (both big and sweet). Very high frequency word in daily Chinese.

Examples

1. 他又迟到了。 He's late again.
2. 这个苹果又大又红。 This apple is both big and red.
3. 下雨了，我又没带伞。 It's raining, and I forgot my umbrella again.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, conversation

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他又来了。(He's here again.)
• 这道菜又好吃又便宜。(This dish is both delicious and cheap.)

Don't Say

• 明天又去吧。(Don't use 又 for future 'again' — use 再. Say 明天再去吧 for 'let's go again tomorrow.')

Origin & History

Pictograph of a right hand, extended to mean 'again/also' — the idea of reaching out one more time.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal