Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Connecting parallel clauses with the semicolon (；)

    Connecting Ideas

    Structure

    Clause；Clause

    Explanation

    The Chinese semicolon (；) is used to connect two parallel or closely related clauses within a single sentence. It indicates a closer relationship than a period but a stronger pause than a comma. It is especially common in balanced or symmetrical sentence structures, such as paired 即使...也 clauses.

    Examples

    • 他喜欢旅行；她更爱待在家里看书。

      tā xǐhuan lǚxíng; tā gèng ài dāi zài jiālǐ kànshū.

      He likes traveling; she prefers staying home and reading.

    • 白天气温很高；夜晚却凉爽得多。

      báitiān qìwēn hěn gāo; yèwǎn què liángshuǎng de duō.

      The daytime temperature is very high; the nights are much cooler.

    • 工作要努力；生活也要懂得享受。

      gōngzuò yào nǔlì; shēnghuó yě yào dǒngde xiǎngshòu.

      Work hard, but also know how to enjoy life.

    Similar Grammar

    Often Confused With

    Connecting parallel clauses with the semicolon (；) | Chinese Grammar