Non-interrogative Uses of Interrogative Pronouns

In Chinese, interrogative pronouns (疑问代词) can also be used in non-interrogative contexts, which can be categorized into two main usages: 任指用法 (indefinite reference) and 不定指用法 (indeterminate reference).

1. 任指用法 (Indefinite Reference)

This usage involves combining interrogative pronouns with the word "都" (dōu), which means "all" or "both." Here are some examples:

• 谁都喜欢她。 (Everyone likes her.)
• 我吃什么都行。 (I can eat anything.)
• 你什么时候来都可以。 (You can come at any time.)
• 我哪儿都没去过。 (I haven't been anywhere.)
• 你想怎么去都没问题。 (You can go however you want.)

Additionally, interrogative pronouns can be used together with each other:

• 你们随便吃，想吃什么吃什么。 (You can eat whatever you want.)
• 谁想参加比赛谁就报名参加。 (Whoever wants to participate in the competition can sign up.)
• 他们几点来就几点开始。 (We will start at whatever time they arrive.)
• 你怎么做，我就怎么做。 (I will do it the way you do.)
• 他们各做各的，谁也不帮谁。 (Everyone does their own thing; no one helps anyone.)

2. 不定指用法 (Indeterminate Reference)

This usage refers to situations where the interrogative pronouns indicate an unspecified or general reference:

• 我好像在哪儿见过你。 (I feel like I've seen you somewhere.)
• 你们先吃点儿什么再去公园吧。 (Why don't you eat something first before going to the park?)
• 要是你一个人搬不动，就请谁来帮一下儿吧。 (If you can't move it by yourself, just ask someone to help.)

These non-interrogative uses of interrogative pronouns enrich the language by allowing for more flexible expressions of generality and inclusivity.