主谓短语作定语zhǔwèi duǎnyǔ zuò dìngyǔ

Subject-Predicate Phrase as Attributive (Relative Clause equivalent)

Meaning: Subject-predicate clause functioning as noun modifier (relative clause)

Pattern

Using a Subject-Predicate phrase as an attributive modifier (主谓短语作定语) is an advanced syntactic structure in HSK 4.
In this pattern, an entire mini-clause [Subject + Verb/Predicate] modifies a head noun via the structural particle 的.
Formula: [Subject + Verb / Verb Phrase] + 的 + Head Noun.
This is syntactically equivalent to English relative clauses ('the book that he wrote', 'the person whom I like'): 他写的书 (the book that he wrote); 我喜欢的人 (the person whom I like); 妈妈做的菜 (the dishes that mother cooked).
The modifying clause can be expanded with complements, objects, and adverbials: 在中国住了五年的人

1
我喜欢的那本书很贵。
Wǒ xǐhuān de nà běn shū hěn guì.
That book which I like is very expensive.
2
妈妈做的菜最好吃。
Māma zuò de cài zuì hǎochī.
The dishes that mother cooked are the most delicious.
3
昨天来的那个人是我的朋友。
Zuótiān lái de nàge rén shì wǒ de péngyou.
That person who came yesterday is my friend.
4
我很喜欢。

•Attributives always precede the head noun. 的 is mandatory between the clause and the noun.

⚠️ Common Mistakes:

•Erroneously placing the modifying clause after the head noun (e.g., following English/Vietnamese word order).

•Omitting the particle 的 between the subject-predicate phrase and the head noun.

Combine Vocabulary, Grammar, Reading Practice, Listening, Hanzi Writing, and Mock Exams at HSK 4 to master all skills together.