HSK 4
而
ér
and/but
Structure
Clause 1 + 而 + Clause 2
How it works
The conjunction 而 (ér) is used to connect two clauses to show a relationship of either coordination or contrast. In formal or written Chinese, it often functions like 'and' when connecting two similar facts, or 'but' when highlighting a contrast between the first and second part of the sentence.
Examples
这种水果不但好吃，而且很便宜。
Zhè zhǒng shuǐguǒ búdàn hǎochī, érqiě hěn piányi.
This kind of fruit is not only delicious, but also very cheap.
有些人喜欢热闹，而有些人喜欢安静。
Yǒuxiē rén xǐhuān rènào, ér yǒuxiē rén xǐhuān ānjìng.
Some people like excitement, while others like quiet.
上海是一个现代而忙碌 trade 的城市。
Shànghǎi shì yígè xiàndài ér mánglù de chéngshì.
Shanghai is a modern and busy city.
Common mistakes
Do not use 而 to connect two independent nouns; it is used to connect adjectives, verbs, or clauses.
Tip
When you see 而 in a sentence, look at the meaning of the two parts it connects. If they are opposites, translate it as 'but/while'; if they are similar, translate it as 'and'.
More HSK 4 grammar
See 而 in real Chinese
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