More emphatic
难道 is a rhetorical question marker that expresses disbelief, surprise, or challenges an assumption. It implies that the speaker expects a negative answer or finds the situation unbelievable.
It often pairs with 吗 at the end of the sentence to form the rhetorical question.
Could it be that you don't know?
Could it really be true?
Use 难道 when you want to express "Don't tell me..." or "Surely not..." - it adds emotional weight to your question.
难道 is rhetorical - expects "no" answer
- 难道你不知道？(Don't you know? [you should])
Often paired with 吗
- 难道...吗？
Expresses disbelief or emphasis
Could it be that you do not know?
Could this really be true?
Do not tell me you forgot our promise?
Find real examples
Discover this pattern in manga, dramas & more
Save for spaced repetition
Add sentences to your study deck
Practice 难道 and other grammar patterns with manga, dramas, and more.
Start learning free