HSK 4 既然 vs 竟然
since/given that vs unexpectedly — similar pronunciation, opposite meaning
Comparison / 对比
| 既然 jìrán | 竟然 jìngrán | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Since, given that (logical premise) | Unexpectedly, surprisingly |
| Function | Conjunction: introduces known fact | Adverb: expresses surprise |
| Structure | 既然…就/那就… | 竟然 + verb (no pair needed) |
| Tone | Calm, logical reasoning | Surprised, emotional |
Examples / 例句
Fill in the Blank / 填空练习
Type the correct word to complete each sentence. Press Enter or click Check.
Quick Quiz / 小测验
Real HSK 4 Test Questions Using 既然 or 竟然 / 真题示例
2 actual HSK 4 questions from our mock exams that test the 既然 vs 竟然 distinction:
既然 vs 竟然 FAQ
Are 既然 and 竟然 interchangeable in HSK 4?
No. Although 既然 (jìrán) and 竟然 (jìngrán) translate similarly into English, HSK 4 fill-in-the-blank and listening questions test exactly the distinction between them. 既然 = 'since' (you already know this fact, so logically…).
How is 既然 vs 竟然 tested in HSK 4?
Most often in HSK 4 阅读 (reading) Part 1 选词填空 (Q46-55), where you choose the correct word for a blank in a sentence. Also appears in 听力 (listening) where the speaker uses one but the printed answer paraphrases with the other. Master both 既然 and 竟然 collocations to lock in these points.
What's the quickest way to remember 既然 vs 竟然?
既然 = 'since' (you already know this fact, so logically…). 竟然 = 'surprisingly' (you did NOT expect this). They sound similar but work completely differently. HSK 4 loves testing this distinction. Practice 3-5 fill-in-blank questions in our HSK 4 mock exams to lock the distinction.