V就V，别…
if you are going to do it, just do it (and do not …)
Structure
动词（宾语） 就 动词（宾语）， 别 …
What it means
If you are going to do it, just do it: saying the verb twice accepts the action, and the 别 clause names the fuss that should stop.
How it is built
Verb (+ object) + 就 + verb (+ object)，别 + fuss: 吃就吃，别挑三拣四的 (If you’re going to eat, eat, and stop picking at everything).
When to use it
Impatient or encouraging, always spoken: aimed at dithering, complaining or picking. Compare V就V个…, which asks for the action to be done to the full.
Watch out
Say the same verb both times (走就走吧), and let the 别 clause name the behaviour to stop: 别再拖了, 别说一半留一半.
Examples
吃就吃，别挑三拣四的。
If you are going to eat, eat, and stop picking at everything.
走就走吧，别再拖了，车快开了。
If we are going, let’s go; stop putting it off, the bus is about to leave.
你想说就说，别说一半留一半。
If you want to say it, say it; do not stop halfway.
Learn this in Lesson 218 · HSK 9+: 文人写吃 (Writers at the table)
A dialogue, a reading, word cards with audio and a drill that uses it, in Learn Chinese with Bao. The first lessons of every level are free.
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