Adverbs / 副词
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
既然: 既然你不想去，那就别去了。
Since you don't want to go, then don't. (logical conclusion from a known fact)
竟然: 没想到他竟然通过了考试！
I didn't expect he actually passed the exam! (surprise)
Quick rule: 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.
Fill in the Blank / 填空练习
Type the correct word to complete each sentence. Press Enter or click Check.
没想到他能一个人完成这么难的任务。
你已经决定了，那就这样吧。
这么远的路，他走着来的！
Quick Quiz / 小测验
你已经决定了，我就不再劝你了。
Since you've decided (known fact → logical conclusion) → 既然.
他平时不怎么学习，考了第一名。
Unexpected result (doesn't study but got #1) → 竟然.
这么简单的问题他不会做。
Such a simple problem but can't solve it = surprise → 竟然.