HSK 7-9
不A而B
bù A ér B
Without A but B; B without A
Structure
不 + Verb/Action (A) + 而 + Result/Action (B)
How it works
This structure is used to describe an outcome or state (B) that occurs without the expected prerequisite or process (A). It emphasize a surprising, spontaneous, or direct transition, often used in formal or literary contexts.
Examples
这种想法和他不谋而合。
Zhè zhǒng xiǎngfǎ hé tā bù móu ér hé.
This idea coincided with his without prior consultation.
真相不言而喻。
Zhēnxiàng bù yán ér yù.
The truth is self-evident (understood without being said).
优秀的习惯是不期而遇的惊喜。
Yōuxiù de xíguàn shì bù qī ér yù de jīngxǐ.
Good habits are a surprise encountered without planning.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse this with '不但...而且' (not only... but also); '不A而B' implies the total absence of A, not an addition to it.
Tip
Many four-character idioms (Chengyu) follow this pattern. If you see a Chengyu starting with '不' and having '而' in the third position, it likely means 'B happens without A'.
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 不A而B in real Chinese
Import an article and tap any sentence using it. The explanation comes back about the sentence in front of you, not a textbook example.
Try InputDojo free