elementaryA2 · TOCFL a2preposition coverbfunction word
跟
Pattern
跟 + person / noun phrase
Key words
Core idea
跟 has several common grammar jobs. It can mark a companion, connect two noun phrases like “and,” or introduce the standard in equality comparisons.
The meaning depends on the sentence pattern around it.
Mini decision rule
If an action follows, 跟 often means “with.” If two noun phrases are being grouped, it may mean “and.” If 一样 follows, it is part of an equality comparison.
Examples
我跟朋友去吃饭。
Wǒ gēn péngyou qù chīfàn.
I go eat with a friend.
我跟他都是学生。
Wǒ gēn tā dōu shì xuésheng.
He and I are both students.
我的书跟你的一样。
Wǒ de shū gēn nǐ de yíyàng.
My book is the same as yours.
Common mistakes
Avoid
我去吃饭跟朋友。
Use
我跟朋友去吃饭。
A 跟 companion phrase usually comes before the action.