1. C
2. A
In order to understand the correct answers to fill in the blanks, let’s take a look at the picture above, which shows a cat 猫 (māo) and dog 狗 (gǒu). We can then use context clues from the given position verb of “在 (zài)” to accurately complete the sentences. “在 (Zài)” is used in Mandarin Chinese when indicating position or location. It’s helpful to first understand the various related phrases that are often used along with “在 (zài)” to signal position or location in Mandarin Chinese, such as:
• 前面 (Qiánmiàn) – in front; at the head; above; preceding; front
• 外面 (Wàimiàn) – outward appearance; exterior; surface
• 上面 (Shàngmiàn) – above; over; on top of; on the surface of; top
• 下面 (Xiàmiàn)- below; under; next; following; underside
The picture shows us that the cat is on top of the sofa, while the dog is in front of the sofa. “上面 (Shàngmiàn)” means “on top of” in Mandarin Chinese, while “前面 (qiánmiàn)“ means “in front” in Mandarin Chinese. Hence, the correct answer for (1) is C, and the correct answer for (2) is A.
Māo zài shāfā de shàngmiàn.
猫在沙发的上面。
The cat is on the sofa.
Gǒu zài shāfā de qiánmiàn.
狗在沙发的前面。
The dog is in front of the sofa.
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