Coordinating conjunctions join elements of equal grammatical rank, such as two nouns, two verbs, or two clauses. They help structure ideas clearly and signal the relationship between joined parts.
Key Conjunctions
The main coordinating conjunctions in Mandarin are hé (和), gēn (跟), yǐjí (以及), huòzhě (或者), and ér (而), each serving a slightly different function. Below are their basic uses.
和 (and)
Hé (和) joins two similar elements like nouns or phrases and is the most common word for “and”. It typically connects things in an additive way.
跟 (and / with)
Gēn (跟) can function like hé to link two nouns or phrases, and it also appears in comparisons or when indicating accompaniment. It is somewhat more colloquial.
以及 (and / as well as)
Yǐjí (以及) joins larger or more formal elements, often in writing or speech that lists multiple items. It can link nouns, phrases, or clauses.
或者 (or)
Huòzhě (或者) presents alternatives and joins two or more options. It is used in statements rather than questions.
而 (but / whereas)
Ér (而) signals contrast or a shift between two clauses, functioning like “but”, “whereas”, or “and yet”. It appears mostly in formal contexts.
Summary
Coordinating conjunctions join equal elements and clarify relationships like addition, choice, or contrast. Use hé (和) for simple “and”, gēn (跟) for more colloquial linking or accompaniment, yǐjí (以及) for formal lists, huòzhě (或者) for alternatives, and ér (而) for contrasts between clauses.
Last updated: Fri Oct 24, 2025