宁可 (níngkě)

In Chinese, "宁可" is an adverbial phrase that indicates preference or choice, often used to express a preference for one option over another. Below are detailed usages of "宁可".

1. Expressing Preference

"宁可" is used to express a preference for one option over another. It implies a willingness to choose or accept a particular option despite possible disadvantages. For example:

• 宁可迟到，也不要错过这个机会。 (Níngkě chídào, yě bùyào cuòguò zhège jīhuì.) — I'd rather be late than miss this opportunity. (lit. Prefer being late, rather than miss this opportunity.)
• 宁可辛苦点，也要完成任务。 (Níngkě xīnkǔ diǎn, yě yào wánchéng rènwu.) — I'd rather work hard than not complete the task. (lit. Prefer to work hard, rather than not complete the task.)

2. Expressing Choice

"宁可" can also be used to express a choice between two options, emphasizing the preference for one option. For example:

• 宁可穷一辈子，也不要欠别人的钱。 (Níngkě qióng yībèizi, yě bùyào qiàn biérén de qián.) — I'd rather be poor all my life than owe money to others. (lit. Prefer to be poor all my life, rather than owe money to others.)
• 宁可失败，也不愿意放弃。 (Níngkě shībài, yě bù yuànyì fàngqì.) — I'd rather fail than give up. (lit. Prefer to fail, rather than willing to give up.)