User Comments - rsmathies

Posted on: What is a Chengyu?

I feel like chengyus would be a lot more useful to me if I knew how to use them properly in a sentence. I find the only time I'm comfortable using them is when I set them up within the 真是...! structure. Is it possible to use chengyus within more complicated structures - like the 把 structure, instance. For example, can you say 他把这件事弄得很乱七八糟？

Also, I was wondering if there would be any difference in meaning if I substituted 其实 instead of 结果 in this dialogue. My guess is that although both are acceptable, 结果 is better somehow. Anyone know why?

Alright, hope someone looks at these postings over a year after the last one...

Posted on: I can't buy my size

While I agree with everyone that learning the distinction between all of "de's" is hugely important, right now I'm far more interested in finding something to cover my feet with in China this winter. I work as a teacher in the great city of Shanghai, and I'm becoming increasingly concerned that come November, I will have no professional work shoes. I've duly noted the above suggestion about the traditional slipper store, but does anybody else know of a REAL shoe store in this city that sells shoes to Western giants?!?!