Word Explanation
都行 (dōu xíng) is an informal, versatile adverbial phrase meaning 'all fine', 'either is okay', or 'it doesn’t matter'. Literally, 都 (dōu) means 'all' or 'both', and 行 (xíng) means 'okay', 'acceptable', or 'works'. Together, they express indifference, flexibility, or willingness to accept any option — especially when responding to choices or suggestions. It’s commonly used in spoken Mandarin during casual conversations about plans, food, timing, or preferences.
The phrase functions as a complete response or sentence-final modifier, often replacing longer expressions like 'I don’t mind' or 'whatever you prefer'. It carries a relaxed, accommodating tone and is rarely used in formal writing. While grammatically it can follow subjects or verbs, in everyday speech it most frequently stands alone or appears at the end of a sentence after a list of options (e.g., '喝咖啡还是喝茶?——都行。'). Its simplicity and warmth make it a staple in friendly, cooperative exchanges.
Example Sentences
Related Words
我的
我的 (wǒ de) is a possessive pronoun meaning 'my'
中国
‘Zhōngguó’ literally means ‘Middle Kingdom’
一天
‘一天’ literally combines the numeral ‘一’ (y
在家
'Zài jiā' literally combines the preposition 'z
不对
不对 (bù duì) literally combines 不 (bù), meani
这边
这边 (zhè biān) literally combines 这 (zhè, 'th
中学
'Zhōngxué' literally combines 'zhōng' (middle)
红色的
红色的 (hóng sè de) is an adjective meaning 'red