例如

• Pinyin: lì rú
• Hanzi breakdown: 例 (lì) = 亻(person) + 列 (to line up); 如 (rú) = 女 (woman) + 口 (mouth)

Meaning

For example; such as. Used to introduce specific examples or instances.

A slightly formal connector used to introduce examples in speech or writing. More formal than 比如 but serves the same function. Often used in explanations and presentations.

Examples

1. 很多水果很好吃，例如苹果和西瓜。 Many fruits are delicious, such as apples and watermelon.
2. 他会说很多语言，例如英语和法语。 He can speak many languages, such as English and French.
3. 中国有很多大城市，例如北京和上海。 China has many big cities, such as Beijing and Shanghai.

Usage Guide

Context: explanation, writing, presentation

Tone: informative

Do Say

• 有很多方法，例如走路或骑车。(There are many ways, such as walking or cycling.)
• 例如，这个问题可以这样解决。(For example, this problem can be solved like this.)

Don't Say

• 不要在日常聊天中总用'例如' (Don't overuse 例如 in casual conversation — use 比如 for a more natural, relaxed tone)

Origin & History

Compound of 例 (example, precedent) and 如 (like, such as). A formal linking expression used since Classical Chinese.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal