进而

• Pinyin: jìn ér
• Hanzi breakdown: 进 = to advance, progress; 而 = classical conjunction (and, but, then)

Meaning

And then; furthermore; consequently. A conjunction indicating progression to a subsequent step or result.

A formal conjunction used to connect actions or developments where the second follows logically from the first. Stronger than 然后, implying a natural or logical progression. Common in academic writing, formal speeches, and argumentative texts.

Examples

1. 他先学会了基础编程，进而开始研究人工智能。 He first learned basic programming, and then moved on to studying artificial intelligence.
2. 这项政策有助于稳定物价，进而促进经济发展。 This policy helps stabilize prices, and consequently promotes economic development.
3. 我们需要先了解问题根源，进而制定解决方案。 We need to first understand the root cause of the problem, and then formulate a solution.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, policy, logical argument

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 了解背景，进而分析原因。(Understand the background, and then analyze the causes.)
• 提高效率，进而降低成本。(Improve efficiency, and thereby reduce costs.)

Don't Say

• 我吃完饭进而去睡觉 (Don't use 进而 for simple everyday sequences — use 然后 instead; 进而 implies logical or developmental progression)

Origin & History

Composed of 进 (to advance) + 而 (and; but — classical connective). Together meaning 'and advancing to' or 'and furthermore.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Formal/academic contexts