Usage of 通通
The word 通通 is an informal adverb meaning "all" or "completely". It emphasizes that every single item or instance in a group is included without exception. It is often used in spoken Mandarin to stress totality.
Common contexts
通通 is frequently used with verbs indicating actions that affect all items, such as 拿走 (take away), 解决 (solve), or 会做 (can do). It conveys a sense of completeness or thoroughness.
Collocations and patterns
- 通通都 + verb: emphasizes that all items are involved in the action.
- 通通 + verb + 了: indicates that the action has been completed for all items.
Nuance and register
通通 is casual and common in everyday speech. It is less formal than words like 全部 or 所有 but conveys a similar meaning with a stronger emphasis on total inclusion.
Common confusion
Do not confuse 通通 with 通常 (usually) or 通讯 (communication). 通通 strictly means "all" or "every one without exception."