比起

• Pinyin: bǐ qǐ
• Hanzi breakdown: 比 = two people side by side (compare); 起 = 走 (walk) + 己 (self)

Meaning

Compared to; in comparison with; as opposed to.

A phrase used to introduce a comparison, typically followed by what is being compared and then the thing it's being compared to. Often used with 更 or 还 to express preference or degree of difference.

Examples

1. 比起坐飞机，我更喜欢坐高铁，感觉更舒服。 Compared to flying, I prefer taking the high-speed rail — it feels more comfortable.
2. 比起十年前，现在的生活真是好太多了。 Compared to ten years ago, life is so much better now.
3. 比起薪水，他更看重工作的发展空间。 Compared to salary, he values career growth potential more.

Usage Guide

Context: comparison, preference, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 比起咖啡，我更爱喝茶。(Compared to coffee, I prefer tea.)
• 比起以前，你进步多了。(Compared to before, you've improved a lot.)

Don't Say

• 用'比起'而不说被比较的对象 (Don't use 比起 without stating what you're comparing to)

Origin & History

比 (to compare) + 起 (starting from). Starting from a comparison point.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal