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March 24, 2026
然而rán’ér(ran2er2)
然而 (rán ér) is a conjunction meaning 'however' or 'but.' It is often used to introduce a contrasting idea or to emphasize a point that is contrary to what has been previously stated. This word is commonly found in both written and spoken Chinese, particularly in formal contexts.
Strokes18Frequency#2563DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese rhetoric, using contrasting ideas is a common technique in both literature and everyday conversation. 然而 exemplifies this practice, illustrating the importance of nuanced expression in Chinese discourse.
Memory Tip
Imagine a 'rainy' day (然) turning into a 'hot' day (而) when you least expect it. The transition from rain to heat illustrates the contrast represented by 然而. The pronunciation 'rán ér' can remind you of a surprising change in weather that contradicts expectations.
Meanings of 然而
rán’ér(ran2er2)
1however
2yet
Exercise 1 of 2
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About 然而
然而Simplified
18Strokes
—Radical
连词连词conjunction (conj.)Part of Speech
#2563Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L4HSK 3.0L4IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 然而
Podcast: 然而
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AI Study Notes for 然而
Quick Contrast
但是 (dànshì) — use 然而 (rán'ér) for a more formal tone compared to 但是 (dànshì).
Usage Notes
While 然而 is often used in formal writing, it can also appear in spoken language, though less frequently. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations where simpler conjunctions like '但是' (dàn shì) might be more appropriate. Be careful with the tone; ensure you pronounce both characters in the second tone.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, 然而 connects well with other conjunctions and transition words you might learn at this level. Focus on using it to link contrasting ideas in your sentences, enhancing your writing and speaking skills.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 然而 with 但是, using them interchangeably in all contexts. Remember, 然而 is more formal, so use it in writing or formal speech, while 但是 is better for casual conversation.
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Pronunciation of 然而
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然而 (rán ér) is a conjunction meaning 'however' or 'but.' It is often used to introduce a contrasting idea or to emphasize a point that is contrary to what has been previously stated. This word is commonly found in both written and spoken Chinese, particularly in formal contexts.
When to use 然而
While 然而 is often used in formal writing, it can also appear in spoken language, though less frequently. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations where simpler conjunctions like '但是' (dàn shì) might be more appropriate. Be careful with the tone; ensure you pronounce both characters in the second tone.
然而 or something close to it
但是 (dànshì) — use 然而 (rán'ér) for a more formal tone compared to 但是 (dànshì).
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 然而 with 但是, using them interchangeably in all contexts. Remember, 然而 is more formal, so use it in writing or formal speech, while 但是 is better for casual conversation.
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Grammar Patterns of 然而
然而 functions as a conjunction — it connects clauses or phrases. Many Chinese conjunctions come in pairs (虽然…但是…, 因为…所以…); use them at the front of the clauses they link. It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
