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HSK 2.0 Level 4+ HSK 3.0 Level 4+ 6 min read

然而 and 而 for “However” and “Whereas”

Use 然而 to start a clause that goes against what came before, and 而 to set two different subjects side by side.

Pattern

…，然而 + clause; A + …，而 + B + …

然而 means “however.” It begins the second clause or a new sentence and turns against the expectation set up by the first. 而 links two contrasting statements about different people or things, like English “whereas.” Both sound written.

大家都以为他会来，然而他没有来。

When to use 然而 and 而 for “However” and “Whereas”

然而 works like a formal 但是: it stands at the start of the second clause, before the subject, and says the result is not what you would expect: 大家都以为他会来，然而他没有来. It can also open a new sentence followed by a comma: 计划很好。然而，时间不够. 而 is used when you compare two different subjects that behave differently: 哥哥喜欢运动，而弟弟喜欢看书. Here the contrast is a side-by-side comparison, not a surprise.

哥哥喜欢运动，而弟弟喜欢看书。

The older brother likes sports, whereas the younger brother likes reading.

这个办法听起来不错，然而做起来很难。

This method sounds good; however, it is hard to carry out.

有的人喜欢热闹，而有的人喜欢安静。

Some people like lively places, while others prefer quiet ones.

计划很好。然而，时间不够。

The plan is good. However, there isn’t enough time.

Common traps

  • 然而 opens the clause, before the subject: 然而他没有来, not 他然而没有来.
  • Use 而 to compare two different subjects; don’t use it to join two nouns like 和.
  • 然而 and 而 sound written; in casual talk, use 但是, 可是 or 不过.

Targeted drill

Practice this exact pattern before moving on.

这个办法听起来不错， 做起来很难

This method sounds good; however, it is hard to carry out
Fill in the missing piece, then press Enter

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