下去xiàqù

Directional Complement 下去 (xiàqù) – Downward, Continuing

Meaning: Complement indicating downward motion or continuation

Pattern

The directional complement 下去 (xiàqù) carries two vital meanings.
Literally, it denotes downward movement away from the speaker: 跑下去 (run down) and 跳下去 (jump down).
Figuratively, it marks the perseverance or continuation of an ongoing activity: 说下去 (go on speaking), 读下去 (keep on reading), and 坚持下去 (persevere / persist).
This pattern is often employed to encourage someone to continue without interruption.
Note the distinct contrast: while 起来 marks an inchoative starting point,

1
请你说下去,我在听。
Qǐng nǐ shuō xiàqù, wǒ zài tīng.
Please go on speaking, I am listening.
2
我们一定要坚持下去。
Wǒmen yídìng yào jiānchí xiàqù.
We must persevere and keep going.
3
他从楼上跑下去了。
Tā cóng lóu shàng pǎo xiàqù le.
He ran downstairs.

•下去 highlights the ongoing continuation of an action, unlike 起来 which marks the start.

⚠️ Common Mistakes:

•Do not confuse 下去 (continue doing) with 下来 (descend toward speaker / settling down).

•Incorrect: 开始说下去。 → Correct: 继续说下去。 (redundant start with continuation)

Combine Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading Practice, Listening, Hanzi Writing, and Mock Exams at HSK 3 to master all skills together.