elementaryA2 · TOCFL a2preposition coverbfunction word
给
Pattern
给 + person + action / thing
Key words
Core idea
给 can be a verb meaning “give,” but it also has grammar uses before a person. It can introduce the recipient, beneficiary, or person an action is directed to.
The person after 给 is usually central to who receives or benefits from the action.
Usage boundary
Do not reduce every use to the English word “give.” In many sentences, 给 is closer to “to” or “for.”
Examples
我给妈妈打电话。
Wǒ gěi māma dǎ diànhuà.
I call my mother.
请给我一杯水。
Qǐng gěi wǒ yì bēi shuǐ.
Please give me a glass of water.
他给朋友买礼物。
Tā gěi péngyou mǎi lǐwù.
He buys a gift for a friend.
Common mistakes
Avoid
我给打电话妈妈。
Use
我给妈妈打电话。
When 给 introduces the person receiving the action, it comes before that person.