Remember to use “根本” correctly

根本 is a compound formed by two characters with the similar meaning. This word has three different uses. The examples will help to master how to use it properly.

根本 gēn běn

Used as a noun

base; foundation; the root; fundamentality

Examples:

从根本上解决问题 tackle a problem at its source

抓住问题的根本 get to the root of a problem

Used as an adjective

basic, fundamental, root

Examples:

根本变化 fundamental change

根本利益 fundamental interests 

根本原因 root cause 

Used as an adverb

at all, totally, at all times, etc

Examples:

根本不当人看 simply not treat sb as a human being

那根本不是孩子该去的地方。 That is no place for a child.

他根本不是什么医生。 He is no doctor in the first place.

问题已得到根本解决。 The matter has been settled once and for all.

我根本就不同意。 I totally disagree.

他根本不会做这种事。 He is quite above such conduct.

我根本就没见过他。 I’ve never seen him before.

 

Check out how two similar, parallel or related characters form a compound