有 (yǒu) — to have; there is/are

有 (yǒu)

有 expresses two related ideas: possession ("I have") and existence ("there is/are"). It is the word to use when English says "have." Do not use 是 (shì) for possession. 是 links identities; 有 indicates possession or existence.

Meanings

1. [verb] To have (possession).
2. [verb] There is, there are (existence).

Example Sentences

我有一个弟弟。 Wǒ yǒu yī gè dìdi. I have a younger brother.

桌子上有一本书。 Zhuōzi shang yǒu yī běn shū. There is a book on the table.

你有问题吗？ Nǐ yǒu wèntí ma? Do you have any questions?

这里有很多人。 Zhèlǐ yǒu hěn duō rén. There are many people here.

Collocations

Memory Hook

有 shows a hand (又) holding meat (月/肉). If you hold meat in your hand, you HAVE something to eat.