只要…就…
as long as …, then …: one condition is enough
Structure
只要 条件 ， 就 结果
What it means
“As long as …, then …”: one condition is enough to bring the result.
How it is built
只要 + condition，(subject) 就 + result: 只要你努力，就一定有进步 (As long as you work at it, you are sure to improve). 就 goes after the subject of the second clause.
When to use it
只要…就 says this condition is enough. 只有…才 says this is the only way. Pick by meaning: enough versus necessary.
Watch out
Swapping 就 and 才 is a classic HSK 5 slip: ✗ 只要你努力，才有进步。 ✓ 只要你努力，就有进步。
Examples
只要动动手指就能完成。
A few taps and it is done.
只要你努力，就一定有进步。
As long as you work at it, you are sure to improve.
Learn this in Lesson 4 · HSK 5: 移动支付 (Paying with your phone)
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.
Open the lesson →