Grammar: verb + 的 + verb?

Question

What is the meaning of this form? Example: > 因为商纣王已失尽人心，军队也多不愿为他送命，于是逃的逃、降的降，起义的起义，朝歌很快就被攻克。纣王自杀，商朝就此灭亡。 I found many articles about simple reduplication of verbs in Chinese, like verb + verb or verb + 一 + verb (看看，看一看） but this one looks different (the way it's used).

Answer 1

Great question!

逃的逃、降的降，起义的起义

There is an omitted '人们‘ in the structure, putting it back, you have: 逃的人们逃、降的人们降，起义的人们起义。Essentially, there is an assortment of reactions to this situation, people doing all kinds of different things.

On the other hand, if you look at 逃的人们逃 closely, you see redundancy: 逃的人们 of course can only 逃. Here it conveys a subtle sense of helplessness in my mind.

Regarding 的, it is not uncommon to omit the none behind it: 大的，小的，红的 etc.

Answer 2

Good Question. Let's talk about the differences between "逃的逃" (verb + 的 + verb) and "看一看" (verb + 一 + verb) in Chinese grammar.

(1) 逃的逃 (to escape or everyone runs their own way): This expression emphasizes an individualized pattern of action through the repeated use of the verb "to escape" and the use of the particle "of." It expresses independent and independent behavior in a situation, and is often used to describe situations of chaos, emergency, or individual independent choice.

(2) 看一看 (take a look): This structure takes the form of "V+one+V", which means performing a simple or tentative action, which is equivalent to easily trying or browsing. This expression gives a casual, informal feel and is often used to invite or suggest a casual observation or inspection.

I hope above explanation helps you.