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B1 verb #1,200 most common 12 min read

结合

jiehe Top 1,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 结合 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 结合 in your Level:

At the A1 level, '结合' (jiéhé) is quite advanced. You can think of it as a fancy way to say 'and' or 'with' when you want to show how two things belong together. For example, if you have a red shirt and a blue hat, and they look good together, you are 'combining' them. It's like putting two puzzle pieces together so they fit. You won't use it often at this stage, but you might see it in simple phrases like 'combining colors.' Just remember it means 'joining two things to make something better.'

For A2 learners, '结合' starts to appear in more practical contexts. You might use it to talk about combining your hobbies or combining different foods. It's a step up from just saying 'and' (和). When you use '结合,' you're saying that the two things are working together. For instance, 'combining study and play' (学习和玩结合). You'll also start seeing it in simple instructions, like 'combine the pictures with the words' in your textbook. It helps you describe how things relate to each other in a more organized way.

At the B1 level, '结合' is an essential vocabulary item. You should use it to describe the integration of abstract ideas, such as 'combining theory with practice' (理论与实践结合). This is the level where you move beyond physical objects to conceptual ones. You'll encounter it in exam prompts that ask you to 'combine the text with your own experience' (结合课文和自己的经历). You should also learn common phrases like '劳逸结合' (balancing work and rest). It’s a key word for expressing synthesis and logical connections in your speaking and writing.

B2 learners should use '结合' with precision and variety. You should be comfortable using the '把...与...结合起来' structure to describe complex processes, such as 'integrating new technology into traditional industries.' At this level, you should also understand the difference between '结合' and its synonyms like '融合' (fusion) or '联合' (unite). You will see '结合' in professional and academic settings, such as business strategies ('结合市场趋势') or scientific reports. It's a tool for high-level analysis and sophisticated description of how systems and ideas interact.

For C1 learners, '结合' is a versatile building block for nuanced arguments. You will use it to discuss the synthesis of complex philosophical systems, political ideologies, or artistic movements. You should be able to use it as both a verb and a noun ('...的结合'). You'll recognize its use in idiomatic and semi-formal expressions like '有机结合' (organic integration). At this level, you are expected to use '结合' to explain how disparate elements are woven together to create a cohesive whole in literature, history, or social science. It’s about the elegance of the union.

At the C2 level, '结合' is used with total mastery in highly formal, academic, or literary contexts. You might use it to describe the '结合部' (junction/interface) of complex systems or the subtle '结合' of disparate elements in a masterpiece of art. You understand its deep cultural roots in Chinese philosophy, where the union of opposites is a central theme. You can use it to critique how well different theories are integrated or to propose new frameworks that '结合' multiple disciplines. It is no longer just a word for 'combining'; it is a concept for understanding the interconnectedness of the world.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

结合 in 30 Seconds

结合 (jiéhé) is a verb meaning 'to combine' or 'to integrate' distinct elements into a unified whole.
It is commonly used for abstract concepts like 'theory and practice' or 'work and rest.'
The standard grammar pattern is 'A 与 B 结合' or '把 A 与 B 结合起来.'
It differs from '混合' (physical mixing) by implying a logical or functional synthesis.

The Chinese word 结合 (jiéhé) is a sophisticated verb that translates to 'to combine,' 'to integrate,' or 'to link.' At its core, it represents the synthesis of two or more distinct elements to create a unified whole or a more effective outcome. Unlike simple mixing, 结合 implies a purposeful and often structural union where the individual parts complement each other. It is a staple in formal discussions, academic writing, and professional strategy, but it also finds its way into daily conversations when discussing lifestyle choices or personal philosophies.

Abstract Synthesis: This refers to the merging of ideas, theories, or concepts. For example, combining traditional values with modern technology.

Physical Integration: Used when two physical entities are joined together to function as one, such as the combination of different mechanical parts or chemical substances that form a new compound.

我们需要把理论与实践结合起来。(Wǒmen xūyào bǎ lǐlùn yǔ shíjiàn jiéhé qǐlái.)

Translation: We need to combine theory with practice.

In a professional context, you will frequently hear this word during project planning. Managers might talk about 'combining the strengths of different departments' (结合各部门的优势). In the culinary world, 'fusion' cuisine is often described using this term, where different regional flavors are '结合' to create a new dining experience. The beauty of this word lies in its versatility; it suggests that the result of the combination is greater than the sum of its parts.

这栋建筑结合了中西方的建筑风格。(Zhè dòng jiànzhù jiéhéle Zhōng-Xīfāng de jiànzhù fēnggé.)

Translation: This building combines Chinese and Western architectural styles.

Furthermore, 结合 is used in social and biological contexts. While 结婚 (jiéhūn) is the specific word for marriage, 结合 can sometimes refer to the union of two people in a broader sense, or the joining of biological cells. However, for B1 learners, the most common usage remains the integration of abstract concepts like 'work and rest' (劳逸结合) or 'learning and thinking' (学思结合). It is a word that elevates your Chinese from simple descriptions to analytical expressions.

这种药是中西医结合的产物。(Zhè zhǒng yào shì Zhōng-Xīyī jiéhé de chǎnwù.)

Translation: This medicine is a product of the combination of Chinese and Western medicine.

Grammar Note: It is often used with the preposition '与' (yǔ) or '和' (hé) to indicate the elements being joined. The structure 'A 与 B 结合' is the standard way to express this.

我们要结合上下文来理解这个词。(Wǒmen yào jiéhé shàngxiàwén lái lǐjiě zhè ge cí.)

Translation: We need to understand this word in combination with the context.

他的演讲结合了幽默与智慧。(Tā de yǎnjiǎng jiéhéle yōumò yǔ zhìhuì.)

Translation: His speech combined humor and wisdom.

Using 结合 (jiéhé) correctly requires understanding its typical sentence structures. It is not just a simple verb like 'to add'; it functions more like 'to integrate.' The most common pattern involves two nouns being linked. Let's explore the various ways to construct sentences with this word to sound more natural and professional.

Pattern 1: A 与 B 结合: This is the most formal and common structure. '与' (yǔ) acts as 'and' or 'with.' Example: 理论与实践结合 (Combining theory and practice).

教师应该把教学与研究结合起来。(Jiàoshī yīnggāi bǎ jiàoxué yǔ yánjiū jiéhé qǐlái.)

Translation: Teachers should combine teaching with research.

In the sentence above, the use of '把' (bǎ) and '起来' (qǐlái) makes the action of combining feel more complete and directional. This is a very common way to express the act of 'bringing things together.'

Pattern 2: 结合 + Object: Sometimes, 结合 is followed by a single noun phrase that implies a combination of elements. Example: 结合实际情况 (Taking actual circumstances into account).

请结合自己的经历谈谈看法。(Qǐng jiéhé zìjǐ de jīnglì tántan kànfǎ.)

Translation: Please share your views in light of your own experiences.

This usage is extremely common in exams or interviews. It asks the speaker to 'integrate' their personal history into their answer. It shows that the word can also mean 'in light of' or 'based on the combination of.'

Pattern 3: A 和 B 的结合: Here, 结合 acts as a noun meaning 'combination' or 'union.' Example: 这是艺术和技术的结合 (This is a combination of art and technology).

这部电影是现实与虚幻的完美结合。(Zhè bù diànyǐng shì xiànshí yǔ xūhuàn de wánměi jiéhé.)

Translation: This movie is a perfect combination of reality and illusion.

When using it as a noun, you can add adjectives like '完美' (perfect), '紧密' (close), or '有机' (organic) to describe the quality of the union. '有机结合' (organic combination) is a high-level phrase often used to describe things that fit together naturally and effectively.

我们要做到劳逸结合。(Wǒmen yào zuò dào láoyì jiéhé.)

Translation: We should strike a balance between work and rest.

Finally, notice how '结合' can be used in fixed four-character phrases. '劳逸结合' (láoyì jiéhé) is a very common idiom advising people to balance hard work with relaxation. This demonstrates that the word is deeply embedded in the Chinese way of thinking about balance and harmony.

只有把两者结合，才能成功。(Zhǐyǒu bǎ liǎngzhě jiéhé, cáinéng chénggōng.)

Translation: Only by combining the two can one succeed.

You will encounter 结合 (jiéhé) in a variety of real-world scenarios, ranging from the evening news to a doctor's consultation. It is a word that signals a holistic approach to a problem or a creative synthesis in art and design. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize the word's nuances in the wild.

In Education and Exams: Teachers and exam papers frequently use '结合.' A typical essay prompt might be: '请结合本文内容，谈谈你的理解' (Please discuss your understanding in combination with the content of this article). It's a call for evidence-based reasoning.

考试时要结合材料回答问题。(Kǎoshì shí yào jiéhé cáiliào huídá wèntí.)

Translation: During the exam, answer the questions in combination with the provided materials.

In the workplace, '结合' is the language of strategy. When a company wants to launch a new product, they might talk about '结合市场需求' (combining with market demand). It implies that the product isn't just a random idea but is integrated with what people actually want. You'll hear it in meetings where different ideas are being synthesized into a single plan.

In Health and Wellness: China is famous for '中西医结合' (combining Chinese and Western medicine). You will see this on hospital signs and in medical brochures. It represents a healthcare philosophy where modern surgery and pharmaceuticals are integrated with traditional herbal medicine and acupuncture.

这种治疗方法结合了多种技术。(Zhè zhǒng zhìliáo fāngfǎ jiéhéle duōzhǒng jìshù.)

Translation: This treatment method combines multiple technologies.

In the world of art and fashion, '结合' describes the fusion of styles. A designer might say their collection '结合了传统与现代' (combines tradition and modernity). In music, a song might '结合了流行与古典元素' (combine pop and classical elements). It’s the go-to word for describing any kind of creative 'mashup' that feels intentional and artistic.

这个设计完美地结合了功能与美观。(Zhège shèjì wánměi de jiéhéle gōngnéng yǔ měiguān.)

Translation: This design perfectly combines functionality and aesthetics.

Finally, in news reports regarding policy or science, you'll hear about '结合国情' (combining with national conditions). This is a very common political phrase in China, suggesting that foreign ideas or systems must be integrated with China's specific reality to be effective. This usage highlights the word's role in discussing large-scale adaptation and synthesis.

In Daily Life: Even in casual talk, you might hear someone say: '我们要结合天气情况来决定去不去' (We need to decide whether to go based on the weather conditions). It shows a practical application of the word in decision-making.

请大家结合实际，提出建议。(Qǐng dàjiā jiéhé shíjì, tíchū jiànyì.)

Translation: Please provide suggestions based on reality.

While 结合 (jiéhé) is a versatile word, English speakers often trip up by using it where other 'combining' words would be more appropriate. Understanding these distinctions is key to achieving a B1/B2 level of fluency. Let's look at the most frequent errors and how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Confusing 结合 with 混合 (hùnhé): '混合' means to mix things together physically, like oil and water, or different colors of paint. '结合' is for a more structural or conceptual union. You wouldn't '结合' sugar into your coffee; you would '混合' or '加入' (jiārù) it.

❌ 我把糖和咖啡结合了。
✅ 我把糖和咖啡混合了。

Note: Use 混合 for physical mixtures where the parts remain somewhat distinct.

Another common mistake is confusing 结合 with 结婚 (jiéhūn). While they share the character '结' (to tie/form), 结婚 is strictly for the legal and social act of getting married. You can say a marriage is a '结合' (union) of two families in a poetic sense, but you cannot use '结合' as a verb to mean 'to marry someone' in a standard sentence.

Mistake 2: Overusing 结合 for simple addition: If you are just adding one thing to another, use '加' (jiā) or '增加' (zēngjiā). '结合' implies that both parts are equally important and are being integrated into a new system. Don't use it for simple arithmetic or adding a topping to a pizza.

❌ 请在我的披萨上结合一点芝士。
✅ 请在我的披萨上加一点芝士。

A third mistake involves the preposition. English speakers often want to use '跟' (gēn) or '和' (hé) as they would with 'with,' which is fine, but they sometimes forget that '与' (yǔ) is the preferred formal partner for '结合.' Using '跟' in a very formal academic paper might feel slightly too casual, though it is grammatically correct.

Mistake 3: Forgetting '起来' (qǐlái): When '结合' is used as an active verb to describe the process of combining, it often sounds incomplete without the directional complement '起来.' It adds the sense of 'bringing together' and completing the action.

我们需要把这两个想法结合起来。(Wǒmen xūyào bǎ zhè liǎng ge xiǎngfǎ jiéhé qǐlái.)

Lastly, be careful with the word order. In English, we say 'Combine A and B.' In Chinese, you can say '结合 A 和 B,' but it's often more natural to say '把 A 和 B 结合' or '将 A 与 B 结合.' The '把' structure emphasizes the transformation of the two separate items into a combined state.

To truly master 结合 (jiéhé), you must know its neighbors. Chinese has several words for 'combining' or 'joining,' each with a specific flavor. Choosing the right one will make your Chinese sound much more precise and sophisticated.

结合 (jiéhé) vs. 混合 (hùnhé): As mentioned, 结合 is for integration and synergy (abstract/structural), while 混合 is for physical mixing where components might still be identifiable. Think 'fusion' vs. 'mixture.'

结合 (jiéhé) vs. 融合 (rónghé): 融合 means 'to melt together' or 'to fuse.' It implies a deeper level of integration than 结合, where the boundaries between the two things completely disappear. It's often used for cultures, bloodlines, or high-level artistic styles.

不同文化在这里融合。(Bùtóng wénhuà zài zhèlǐ rónghé.)

Translation: Different cultures fuse together here.

While you could use 结合 for cultures, 融合 sounds more poetic and suggests a seamless blend. 结合 is more functional—like combining two departments in a company.

结合 (jiéhé) vs. 联合 (liánhé): 联合 means 'to unite' or 'to ally.' It is used for people, organizations, or nations joining forces for a common goal. Think of the 'United Nations' (联合国 - Liánhéguó). It's about cooperation rather than synthesis.

两家公司联合举办了这次活动。(Liǎng jiā gōngsī liánhé jǔbànle zhè cì huódòng.)

Translation: Two companies jointly organized this event.

If the companies '结合,' they might have merged into one. If they '联合,' they are just working together on one project. This is a crucial distinction in business Chinese.

结合 (jiéhé) vs. 配合 (pèihé): 配合 means 'to coordinate' or 'to cooperate.' It’s used when two things or people work together in a supportive way. For example, a player '配合' their teammate. 结合 is the act of joining; 配合 is the act of working well together.

这个计划需要各部门的配合。(Zhège jìhuà xūyào gè bùmén de pèihé.)

Translation: This plan requires the coordination of all departments.

Finally, consider '合并' (hébìng), which means 'to merge' or 'to consolidate.' This is often used for administrative units or businesses that become one legal entity. While 结合 is broad and can be conceptual, 合并 is very specific to organizational or physical merging into a single unit.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient China, '结' was used to record events before writing existed (knot-tying). '合' is one of the most common characters representing harmony (和) and togetherness.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dʒiɛ̌.xɤ̌/

US /dʒiɛ̌.xɤ̌/

Equal stress on both syllables as is typical in Mandarin, but the rising tones give it a rhythmic lift.

Rhymes With

鞋 (xié) 解 (jiě) 河 (hé) 盒 (hé) 和 (hé) 学 (xué - partial) 节 (jié) 别 (bié)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'jie' as 'jay' (it should be 'jyeh').
Pronouncing 'he' as 'hee' (it should be 'huh').
Missing the rising tone on the second syllable, making it sound like 'jièhe'.
Confusing the tones with 'jiéhūn' (marriage).
Failing to aspirate the 'h' in 'hé' correctly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Common in textbooks and news, easy to recognize but requires context to understand the specific 'integration' being discussed.

Writing 4/5

Requires knowledge of formal prepositions like '与' and structures like '把...结合起来'.

Speaking 3/5

Useful for explaining plans or opinions, but beginners might stick to '和' instead of '结合'.

Listening 3/5

Frequently heard in formal speeches and educational settings.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

和与一起结合

Learn Next

融合联合合并统一协调

Advanced

相辅相成珠联璧合水乳交融刚柔并济

Grammar to Know

The '把' Construction

把他和我的想法结合起来。

Formal Preposition '与'

理论与实践结合。

Directional Complement '起来'

结合起来。

Adverbial Modifier '地'

有机地结合。

Noun phrase with '的'

两者的结合。

Examples by Level

红和蓝结合在一起。

Red and blue combine together.

Simple A and B structure.

我们要结合这些图片。

We need to combine these pictures.

Using 结合 as a direct verb.

这两种花结合很美。

These two kinds of flowers combine beautifully.

Subject + 结合 + Adjective.

把手和脚结合起来。

Combine hands and feet (in a movement).

Using the 把 structure.

学习和运动要结合。

Study and sports should be combined.

A and B as a compound subject.

老师结合了两个故事。

The teacher combined two stories.

Past action with 了.

这是颜色和形状的结合。

This is a combination of color and shape.

Using 结合 as a noun.

请把这两个词结合。

Please combine these two words.

Imperative sentence.

我喜欢把工作和休息结合。

I like to combine work and rest.

Expressing personal preference.

这道菜结合了甜和辣。

This dish combines sweet and spicy.

Describing flavors.

他结合了大家的意见。

He combined everyone's opinions.

Abstract object (opinions).

我们要结合天气去旅行。

We should combine the weather to travel (decide based on weather).

Using 结合 to mean 'considering' or 'in light of'.

音乐和舞蹈结合得很完美。

Music and dance are combined perfectly.

Using 得 to describe the result.

请结合课文回答。

Please answer in combination with the text.

Common classroom instruction.

这个游戏结合了运动和学习。

This game combines exercise and learning.

Describing features of an object.

把理论与实践结合起来很难。

It is hard to combine theory with practice.

Using 与 for a more formal 'and'.

我们要做到劳逸结合，不要太累。

We should strike a balance between work and rest; don't get too tired.

Using the idiom 劳逸结合.

请结合实际情况，写一份报告。

Please write a report in light of the actual situation.

Standard professional instruction.

他的成功是努力与机遇的结合。

His success is a combination of hard work and opportunity.

Noun usage with 'is' (是...的结合).

这栋建筑结合了中西方的风格。

This building combines Chinese and Western styles.

Describing architectural fusion.

我们要把学习和思考结合起来。

We need to combine learning and thinking.

The '把...与...结合起来' structure.

这种药是中西医结合的产物。

This medicine is a product of combined Chinese and Western medicine.

Describing a specific field (medicine).

请结合上下文理解这个词的意思。

Please understand the meaning of this word in combination with the context.

Academic instruction.

这个设计结合了功能与美观。

This design combines functionality and aesthetics.

Describing design principles.

该项目将传统工艺与现代技术紧密结合。

The project closely combines traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.

Using 将 (formal 把) and 紧密 (closely).

我们需要结合市场需求来调整策略。

We need to adjust our strategy in combination with market demand.

Business context.

这篇文章完美地结合了叙述与议论。

This article perfectly combines narration and commentary.

Literary analysis.

教育应该与社会实践相结合。

Education should be combined with social practice.

Passive-style structure with 相结合.

他的演讲结合了幽默感和深刻的见解。

His speech combined a sense of humor with profound insights.

Describing personal qualities.

只有把两者有机地结合，才能发挥最大作用。

Only by organically combining the two can the maximum effect be achieved.

Using 有机地 (organically).

我们要结合国情，制定相应的发展计划。

We must formulate corresponding development plans in light of national conditions.

Political/Economic context.

这种艺术形式是多种文化结合的结晶。

This art form is the crystallization of the combination of multiple cultures.

Using 结晶 (crystallization/result).

这部作品深刻地反映了人道主义与现实主义的结合。

This work profoundly reflects the combination of humanitarianism and realism.

High-level literary criticism.

在处理复杂问题时，必须结合定性与定量分析。

When dealing with complex problems, qualitative and quantitative analysis must be combined.

Scientific/Academic methodology.

该政策旨在实现经济增长与环境保护的有机结合。

The policy aims to achieve an organic combination of economic growth and environmental protection.

Formal policy language.

他的哲学思想是东西方智慧的完美结合。

His philosophical thoughts are a perfect combination of Eastern and Western wisdom.

Abstract philosophical discussion.

我们需要在结合部寻找突破口。

We need to find a breakthrough at the junction/interface.

Using 结合部 as a noun meaning junction.

这种叙事手法将虚构与纪实巧妙地结合在一起。

This narrative technique ingeniously combines fiction and documentary.

Describing creative techniques.

我们要紧密结合时代特征，推动文化创新。

We must closely combine with the characteristics of the times to promote cultural innovation.

Formal cultural discourse.

法律的执行必须结合具体案情，做到公正合理。

The execution of the law must be combined with the specific details of the case to be fair and reasonable.

Legal context.

该理论试图在宏观与微观经济学之间建立一种有机的结合。

The theory attempts to establish an organic combination between macro and microeconomics.

Advanced academic theory.

这种审美取向是古典主义与浪漫主义精神的深层结合。

This aesthetic orientation is a deep-seated combination of classicism and the spirit of romanticism.

Aesthetic and historical analysis.

在社会转型期，必须妥善处理传统与现代的结合问题。

During the period of social transformation, the issue of combining tradition and modernity must be handled properly.

Sociological discourse.

他的诗歌达到了意境与语言的无缝结合。

His poetry achieved a seamless combination of artistic conception and language.

Highest level of literary praise.

该研究探讨了基因与环境在个体发育中的复杂结合。

The study explores the complex combination of genes and environment in individual development.

Advanced biological research.

这种制度安排是权力制衡与行政效率的巧妙结合。

This institutional arrangement is an ingenious combination of checks and balances and administrative efficiency.

Political science analysis.

我们要从战略高度审视产业与科技的深度结合。

We must examine the deep integration of industry and technology from a strategic height.

High-level strategic planning.

这种文化现象是历史积淀与现实需求共同作用的结合体。

This cultural phenomenon is a combination resulting from the joint action of historical accumulation and real-world needs.

Complex noun phrase (结合体).

Synonyms

融合合并联结

Antonyms

分离拆散脱离

Common Collocations

紧密结合

有机结合

结合实际

结合部

结合起来

完美结合

长期结合

结合上下文

深度结合

结合点

Common Phrases

劳逸结合

— To balance work and rest. It is a common advice for health and productivity.

我们要学会劳逸结合。

中西医结合

— Combining traditional Chinese medicine with Western medicine. A common medical approach in China.

这家医院擅长中西医结合。

结合实际

— To take reality into account. Often used in instructions for problem-solving.

请结合实际情况制定计划。

学思结合

— To combine learning with thinking. A classic educational philosophy.

孔子提倡学思结合。

城乡结合部

— The area where the city meets the countryside; the outskirts.

他住在城乡结合部。

理论结合实践

— To combine theory with practice. A fundamental principle in many fields.

理论结合实践是成功的关键。

内外结合

— Combining internal and external factors or forces.

这个问题的解决需要内外结合。

动静结合

— Combining movement and stillness. Often used in art, exercise, or landscape design.

这幅画体现了动静结合之美。

点面结合

— Combining specific points with the overall area/situation.

工作要做到点面结合。

虚实结合

— Combining the abstract (void) and the concrete (solid). A concept in traditional Chinese aesthetics.

园林设计讲究虚实结合。

Often Confused With

结合 vs 结婚

Both share '结', but 结婚 is specifically for marriage, while 结合 is for general integration.

结合 vs 混合

混合 is for physical mixing; 结合 is for conceptual or structural integration.

结合 vs 联合

联合 is for an alliance of people/groups; 结合 is for the synthesis of elements.

Idioms & Expressions

"劳逸结合"

— Strike a balance between work and leisure. It emphasizes the importance of rest for long-term efficiency.

为了身体健康，你应该劳逸结合。

Neutral/Common

"珠联璧合"

— A perfect pair; an excellent combination of talented people or beautiful things. Literally: 'a string of pearls and a pair of jade discs.'

他们两人的合作真是珠联璧合。

Literary/Formal

"相辅相成"

— To complement each other. While not using '结合' directly, it describes the ideal state of combination.

这两者相辅相成，缺一不可。

Formal

"水乳交融"

— To be in complete harmony; to blend as well as milk and water. A very deep form of 结合.

师生关系水乳交融。

Literary

"天衣无缝"

— Seamless; flawless. Used to describe a perfect combination or plan with no gaps.

这个计划结合得天衣无缝。

Idiomatic

"刚柔并济"

— Combining hardness and softness; tempering force with mercy.

管理员工要刚柔并济。

Formal

"博采众长"

— To collect and combine the strengths of many. A proactive form of 结合.

我们要博采众长，完善设计。

Formal

"浑然一体"

— To be integrated into a single whole; to be one with nature or a style.

这栋房子与周围环境浑然一体。

Literary

"双管齐下"

— To use two methods simultaneously to achieve a goal. A practical way of combining efforts.

我们要双管齐下，解决问题。

Neutral

"并驾齐驱"

— To run neck and neck; to develop simultaneously and combine forces.

经济与文化应该并驾齐驱。

Formal

Easily Confused

结合 vs 混合 (hùnhé)

Both mean 'to combine' in English.

混合 is for physical mixtures (oil and water). 结合 is for logical or structural synthesis (theory and practice).

把面粉和水混合。

结合 vs 融合 (rónghé)

Both describe things coming together.

融合 is a deeper, seamless blending where parts are no longer distinct (cultures). 结合 is a functional joining.

爵士乐与蓝调的融合。

结合 vs 联合 (liánhé)

Both imply joining.

联合 is for cooperation between entities (United Nations). 结合 is for integrating elements into one.

联合声明。

结合 vs 合并 (hébìng)

Both mean joining into one.

合并 is specific to merging organizations or files into a single unit. 结合 is broader and can be abstract.

公司合并。

结合 vs 配合 (pèihé)

Both involve things working together.

配合 is about coordination and support. 结合 is about the act of joining.

球员之间的配合。

Sentence Patterns

A 和 B 结合

运动和学习结合。

把 A 与 B 结合起来

把理论与实践结合起来。

结合...情况

结合实际情况。

将 A 与 B 紧密结合

将技术与艺术紧密结合。

是 A 与 B 的完美结合

这是美观与实用的完美结合。

实现...的有机结合

实现经济与环境的有机结合。

在...结合部

在城乡结合部。

从...高度审视...结合

从战略高度审视产学研结合。

Word Family

Nouns

结合部 (jiéhébù) - junction/joint

结合体 (jiéhétǐ) - combination/union

结合点 (jiéhédiǎn) - point of combination

Verbs

结 (jié) - to tie/knot

合 (hé) - to close/join

联合 (liánhé) - to unite

组合 (zǔhé) - to assemble

Adjectives

结合性的 (jiéhéxìng de) - combinational

结婚 (jiéhūn) - to marry

结果 (jiéguǒ) - result

合作 (hézuò) - to cooperate

合同 (hétóng) - contract

合理 (hélǐ) - reasonable

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in academic, professional, and educational contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 结合 for physical mixing of ingredients. → 使用混合 (hùnhé).
结合 is for conceptual integration; 混合 is for physical mixtures.
Saying '我结合他' to mean 'I married him.' → 我跟他结婚了 (Wǒ gēn tā jiéhūn le).
结合 is a general union; 结婚 is the specific word for marriage.
Forgetting the '起来' in active verb sentences. → 把理论与实践结合起来。
Adding '起来' makes the action of combining feel complete and natural.
Using 结合 for simple addition (1+1). → 使用加 (jiā).
结合 implies a complex integration, not just a mathematical sum.
Using 结合 when you mean 'cooperate.' → 使用配合 (pèihé) or 合作 (hézuò).
结合 is about joining; 配合 is about working together effectively.

Tips

Use the '把' structure

To sound more natural when using 结合 as a verb, use '把 A 和 B 结合起来'.

Learn the fixed phrases

Phrases like 劳逸结合 and 结合实际 are used so often they are almost like single words.

Formal Prepositions

In essays, always use '与' (yǔ) to link the things you are combining with 结合.

Think Synthesis

Use 结合 when the result of the combination is a new, better, or more complete version.

Rising Tones

Focus on the rising tones (2nd tone) for both characters: jié-hé.

Professionalism

Use '结合...' to start your sentences in professional settings to show you are considering the context.

Look for Pairs

When you see 结合, look for the two things (A and B) being linked nearby in the text.

Harmony

Remember that 结合 reflects the Chinese value of finding balance and harmony between different forces.

Not for Coffee

Don't use 结合 for mixing sugar in coffee; use 混合 or 加.

Noun Usage

Try using '...的结合' as a subject or object to vary your sentence structure.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Jie' as 'Joining' and 'He' as 'Harmony.' When you 结合, you are Joining things in Harmony.

Visual Association

Imagine two gears (A and B) clicking together perfectly to run a machine. That 'click' is the 结合.

Word Web

理论实践实际完美紧密有机中西劳逸

Challenge

Try to use '结合' in three different ways today: once for your schedule, once for a food combination, and once for an idea you have.

Word Origin

The word consists of two characters: 结 (jié) and 合 (hé). 结 originally referred to tying a knot or weaving threads together. 合 originally depicted a lid closing over a container, symbolizing joining or fitting together.

Original meaning: To tie together and fit perfectly.

Sino-Tibetan / Mandarin Chinese

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities, but ensure not to use it as a direct synonym for 'marriage' (结婚) in casual conversation.

In English, we often use 'combine' or 'mix' loosely. In Chinese, '结合' is more formal and implies a higher level of 'integration' than 'mix.'

Mao Zedong's '理论联系实际' (Linking theory with practice) is a famous use of the concept. The architectural style of the 'Bund' in Shanghai is a famous '结合' of East and West. The 'One Country, Two Systems' policy is a political '结合'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Academic/Exams

结合材料
结合课文
结合上下文
理论结合实践

Business/Strategy

结合市场需求
结合公司现状
紧密结合
有机结合

Health/Lifestyle

劳逸结合
中西医结合
动静结合
饮食结合

Art/Design

结合中西风格
功能与美观结合
完美结合
虚实结合

Politics/Society

结合国情
城乡结合部
内外结合
点面结合

Conversation Starters

"你觉得在学习中，应该如何把理论和实践结合起来？"

"你平时是怎么做到劳逸结合的？"

"你喜欢这种结合了现代与传统风格的建筑吗？"

"在你的国家，医生会把传统医学和现代医学结合吗？"

"你认为成功是努力和运气的结合吗？"

Journal Prompts

写一写你最近是如何在生活中做到劳逸结合的，这对你的心情有什么影响？

描述一个你认为‘完美结合’了不同元素的产品或艺术品。

结合你学习中文的经历，谈谈你认为最有效的学习方法是什么。

如果让你设计一栋房子，你会如何结合不同的文化风格？

谈谈你对‘中西医结合’这种医疗方式的看法。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. For physical ingredients, use '混合' (hùnhé) or '加入' (jiārù). However, if you are talking about 'fusing' two different culinary styles (like French and Chinese), you can use '结合'.

Yes, it is more formal than '加' (add) or '放一起' (put together). It is very common in writing, speeches, and textbooks.

结合 is 'integration' (functional), while 融合 is 'fusion' (seamless). If you combine two departments, it's 结合. If two cultures blend so much they become one, it's 融合.

Poetically or formally, yes, it can refer to the union of two people. But in daily life, always use '结婚' (jiéhūn) to mean 'to get married.'

The standard phrase is '理论与实践结合' (lǐlùn yǔ shíjiàn jiéhé).

It means to balance work (劳) and rest (逸). It's a very common piece of advice in China.

Yes, for example: '这是艺术和技术的结合' (This is a combination of art and technology).

It refers to the 'urban-rural fringe' or the outskirts of a city where the urban area meets the countryside.

No, you can use '和' or '跟' in casual speech, but '与' is preferred in formal writing.

It means 'organic combination,' referring to things that fit together naturally and effectively as a whole.