Usage of 答应 (dāying)
The word 答应 primarily means "to answer" or "to agree/consent." It is commonly used in everyday conversation when someone responds to a request or question.
Common contexts
- To agree to a request or invitation: e.g., 他答应了我的邀请 (He agreed to my invitation).
- To promise or assure someone: e.g., 请你答应我 (Please promise me).
- To answer a question, especially in a classroom or discussion setting.
Collocations and patterns
- 答应 + 人 (to agree to someone)
- 答应 + 要求/邀请 (to agree to a request/invitation)
- 答应 + 保密 (to promise to keep secret)
Nuances
When 答应 is used to mean "agree" or "promise," it often implies a commitment or assurance, not just a casual reply. It is more formal than just saying "yes" but less formal than a written contract.
Avoid confusing 答应 with 回答, which strictly means "to answer" a question without the implication of agreement or promise.