Abstract: The construction of V shang yi V (where shang serves as an aspectual/modal particle expressing brief initiation or mild engagement of an action, and yi literally means one) falls into the category of subjectively minimized quantity. Most verbs that can enter this construction are action verbs. This construction expresses that the speaker intentionally repeats the action to a minor degree. The purpose is to ensure that the action’s completion meets the subject’s anticipated degree. The formation of the construction originates from the source structure V (verb of movement) + shang (a directional verb) + place noun (a nominal phrase). The meaning of the construction is derived from construction of V yi V. Moreover, in interactive contexts, this construction often appears in concessive environments, forming semantic contrasts or co-occurring with words denoting subjectively minimized quantity. This article builds on the preliminary analysis of this construction’s semantic features, formation sources, and usage contexts. It combines diachronic and synchronic perspectives to conduct a multi-faceted examination of the V shang yi V construction.