Table of Contents

hái yǒu: 还有 - Also, In Addition, Still

Quick Summary

Core Meaning

Character Breakdown

Cultural Context and Significance

While 还有 is a functional grammar word rather than a deep cultural concept like 关系 (guānxi), its usage reflects a common pattern in Chinese communication: building up information layer by layer. In English, we might use separate sentences or more abrupt conjunctions. In Chinese, 还有 provides a smooth, natural bridge to continue a thought, add another reason, or list more items without breaking the conversational flow. It signals to the listener, “Wait, I'm not done yet; there's another piece to this.” This helps create a more connected and comprehensive narrative, whether one is telling a story, giving instructions, or making a point in a discussion. It's less like the English “also” and more like “and on top of that…” or “plus…” in its ability to keep the listener engaged and expecting more.

Practical Usage in Modern China

还有 is incredibly common in daily life. Its meaning shifts slightly based on context.

1. Adding to a List ("Also", "In addition")

This is the most common usage. It's used to add another noun, verb, or clause to what's already been said. `Subject + Verb + Object 1, 还有 + Object 2.`

2. Indicating Continuation ("Still")

This usage is closer to the literal meaning of “still have.” It indicates that a quantity of something remains or that a situation is ongoing. `Subject + 还有 + [Noun/Time/etc.]`

3. Asking "What else?" or "Who else?"

In questions, 还有 is used to ask what or who else there is. It's extremely common when ordering food or shopping. `还有 + [Question Word] + …?` (e.g., 还有什么? 还有谁?)

Example Sentences

Nuances and Common Mistakes

The most significant point of confusion for learners is the difference between 还有 (hái yǒu) and 也 (yě). Both can be translated as “also,” but they are not interchangeable. Mistake 1: Confusing 还有 (hái yǒu) with 也 (yě)

Mistake 2: Using 还有 when just 还 (hái) is needed