而且

• Pinyin: ér qiě
• Hanzi breakdown: 而 (ér) — and, but (classical); 且 (qiě) — moreover, also

Meaning

Moreover; and also; furthermore. A conjunction used to add information, often escalating in degree.

Frequently paired with 不但 (not only) in the pattern 不但...而且... (not only...but also...). Used to add a second point that is usually of equal or greater importance.

Examples

1. 这道菜不但好吃，而且好看。 This dish is not only tasty, but also beautiful.
2. 他会说中文，而且说得很好。 He can speak Chinese, and speaks it very well.
3. 这个地方很近，而且很方便。 This place is close and also very convenient.

Usage Guide

Context: adding information, emphasis, arguments

Tone: emphatic

Do Say

• 她不但聪明，而且很努力。(She's not only smart, but also very hardworking.)
• 这本书很有趣，而且很有用。(This book is interesting and also very useful.)

Don't Say

• 不要在'而且'后面说程度更低的内容 — 而且 implies progression or escalation. The clause after 而且 should be of equal or greater importance than the first.

Origin & History

Compound of 而 (and, but — classical conjunction) and 且 (also, moreover). Both are ancient function words combined in modern Mandarin for additive emphasis.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal