This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 adverb 12 min read

接着

jiezhe

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 接着 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 接着 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to connect simple ideas. 接着 (jiēzhe) is introduced as a way to say 'then' for very simple daily routines. For example, 'I eat, then I go to school.' At this stage, the focus is on the basic word order: Action 1, 接着 Action 2. It helps students move away from using only 'and' (和, which is for nouns, not actions) to connect their day. Beginners learn it as a synonym for 'next' in a list of actions. The key is to understand that it goes before the second verb. It's often taught alongside basic verbs like eat, drink, sleep, and go. Students are encouraged to use it to describe their morning or evening routines in a linear fashion. Even at this basic level, it starts to build the concept of temporal flow in Chinese, which is different from English 'and then' because of its specific placement in the sentence. No complex grammar is required yet, just the sequential 'Step A, then Step B' logic. It is a 'bridge' word that makes simple sentences sound more like a coherent thought rather than a list of isolated facts.

At the A2 level, 接着 (jiēzhe) becomes a vital tool for more detailed storytelling and describing processes. Students learn to use it not just for simple routines, but for sequences where one action is a response to another. For example, 'The teacher asked a question, and then I answered.' A2 learners also start to see the 'continue' meaning, such as 'continue reading' (接着看). This is the level where the distinction between 接着 and 然后 (ránhòu) begins to matter. Teachers emphasize that 接着 feels 'faster'—the second thing happens right after the first. Students might use it to describe a trip they took or a movie they watched, linking the scenes together. It's also common in simple instructions, like 'Turn left, then go straight.' The focus here is on fluency and the ability to maintain a conversation by using transition words. Learners are expected to use 接着 correctly within a clause, often following a comma. It helps in achieving the HSK 2/3 level requirement of being able to describe sequences of events in daily life with some level of detail and logical connection.

By the B1 level, 接着 (jiēzhe) is used with more complex sentence structures and a wider variety of verbs. Learners use it to describe professional workflows or academic procedures. For instance, 'First, we collect the data, then we analyze it.' The nuance of 'picking up where one left off' becomes more prominent. If a meeting is interrupted, a B1 speaker would use 接着 to restart: 'Let's continue (接着) our discussion.' At this stage, students also learn to use it in more abstract ways, such as the continuation of a trend or a logical argument. They might encounter it in longer reading passages where it acts as a cohesive device to guide the reader through a multi-step narrative. The B1 learner should also be comfortable with the 'catch' meaning in physical contexts, though the adverbial use remains more frequent. They start to notice that 接着 can be paired with other adverbs like '又' or '也' to add emphasis. The goal at B1 is to use 接着 to create complex, multi-clause sentences that flow naturally, reflecting a deeper understanding of how time and sequence are expressed in Mandarin.

At the B2 level, 接着 (jiēzhe) is used with precision to distinguish between immediate and non-immediate sequences. B2 learners are expected to choose 接着 over 然后 when the context demands a sense of 'tightness' or direct continuation. They also begin to use the word in more formal settings, such as during a formal presentation or in written reports. For example, 'The company expanded its market in Asia, and subsequently (接着) moved into the European market.' The use of '紧接着' (jǐnjiēzhe) for even greater immediacy is also mastered here. B2 students are sensitive to the stylistic rhythm that 接着 provides, using it to avoid repetitive sentence structures. They can handle transitions between different subjects more smoothly: 'The first speaker finished, and the next speaker (接着的发言人) took the stage.' This level of usage shows a high degree of control over the word's grammatical roles—both as an adverb and as a modifier. The B2 learner also understands the subtle differences between 接着 and more formal synonyms like 随后 or 继而, choosing the one that best fits the register of the conversation or document.

At the C1 level, 接着 (jiēzhe) is used with a high degree of nuance and stylistic flair. C1 learners use it to manage complex narratives where multiple timelines or logical threads are being woven together. They understand its role in creating 'cohesion' in advanced writing, such as essays or literary analysis. A C1 speaker might use 接着 to highlight a surprising or inevitable consequence in a story: 'He thought he had escaped, but then (接着) he ran right into the police.' The word is used to control the pace of the narrative, speeding it up by implying rapid succession. C1 learners also explore the word's use in idiomatic expressions and more obscure literary contexts. They can analyze why an author chose 接着 instead of a more formal alternative to create a specific tone—perhaps one that is more grounded or immediate. At this level, the word is not just a tool for sequence; it is a tool for rhetorical effect. The C1 learner's mastery is shown in their ability to use 接着 in a way that sounds completely effortless and native-like, even in highly complex or abstract discussions.

At the C2 level, the mastery of 接着 (jiēzhe) is absolute, including its most subtle connotations and historical roots. A C2 learner can use the word in any context, from high-level diplomatic negotiations to classical-style modern prose. They understand how 接着 functions within the broader system of Chinese discourse markers and can use it to manipulate the listener's or reader's expectations. For example, in a philosophical debate, they might use it to show the immediate logical derivation of one point from another. They are also aware of regional variations in how the word is used across the Chinese-speaking world. C2 speakers can use the word's 'catch' and 'continue' meanings metaphorically in sophisticated ways, such as 'catching' the torch of a legacy or 'continuing' a line of thought that spans generations. Their usage is characterized by perfect timing and placement, contributing to a speaking or writing style that is not only correct but also elegant and persuasive. At this level, 接着 is a small but essential part of a vast linguistic repertoire used to express the finest shades of meaning in the human experience.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

接着 in 30 Seconds

接着 (jiēzhe) is a common Chinese word meaning 'then' or 'next,' used to link actions that happen in a quick, direct sequence.
It also functions as a verb meaning 'to catch' (like a ball) or 'to continue' (like a story or a task).
In a sentence, it usually appears before the second verb to show that the action follows the previous one without much delay.
It is more specific than '然后' (ránhòu) because it implies a tighter connection and more immediate timing between the two events.

The Chinese word 接着 (jiēzhe) is a versatile adverb and verb that primarily translates to 'then,' 'next,' or 'to follow' in English. At its core, the character 接 (jiē) means to connect, to receive, or to meet, while 着 (zhe) is often a particle indicating a continuous state or the result of an action. When combined as an adverb, they signify that one action follows another with very little or no interruption. This word is essential for anyone moving beyond basic sentence structures into storytelling or giving instructions, as it provides the glue that connects sequential events in a way that feels natural and fluid to native speakers. Unlike the more general '然后' (ránhòu), which simply means 'afterward,' 接着 implies a tighter temporal link, suggesting that the second action is a direct continuation of the first.

Temporal Immediacy: It describes actions that happen one after another in a tight sequence, similar to 'immediately following' or 'proceeding to.'
Conversational Continuity: It is frequently used in dialogue to prompt someone to continue their story or to indicate that the speaker is moving to the next point in a narrative.

你先说，我接着听。(You speak first, I will continue listening.)

In a practical sense, imagine you are watching a relay race. When one runner passes the baton to the next, that transition is the essence of 接着. It is about the hand-off. If you are reading a book and someone interrupts you, when you return to the page, you are '接着看' (continuing to read). This sense of 'picking up where things left off' is a nuance that English speakers sometimes miss if they only learn the word as a generic 'then.' It is also commonly used in the imperative form to encourage someone to keep going, such as '接着做!' (Keep doing it! / Carry on!). This usage demonstrates its function as a motivator for persistence in an ongoing task.

他喝了一口水，接着又开始了演讲。(He took a sip of water, then immediately started the speech again.)

Furthermore, in more formal or literary contexts, 接着 can be used to describe historical events or logical progressions. It serves as a bridge between ideas, ensuring the reader understands the chronological flow. Whether you are explaining a recipe, describing your daily routine, or recounting a complex series of events at work, mastering this word will make your Chinese sound significantly more sophisticated and connected. It moves you away from the 'And then... and then... and then...' (然后... 然后... 然后...) trap that many beginners fall into, providing a more rhythmic and varied cadence to your speech.

Structural Role: As an adverb, it typically appears before the verb of the second clause. It cannot usually stand alone as a conjunction in the same way 'And' does in English; it needs that verbal connection.

会议结束后，我们接着讨论了预算问题。(After the meeting ended, we proceeded to discuss the budget issues.)

Using 接着 (jiēzhe) correctly requires an understanding of its position within a sentence. Usually, it functions as an adverbial modifier, placed directly before the verb it modifies. The basic structure is: [First Action/Context], (Subject) + 接着 + [Second Action]. Unlike some English transition words that can appear at the very beginning of a sentence followed by a comma, 接着 is more integrated into the predicate of the second clause. For example, in the sentence 'He ate breakfast, then went to school,' you would say '他吃完早饭，接着去上学了' (Tā chī wán zǎofàn, jiēzhe qù shàngxué le). Here, it emphasizes the sequence of events without a significant time gap between eating and leaving.

Verb-Adverb Relationship: The word '接着' acts as a bridge. If the first verb is 'stop' (停), the second verb modified by '接着' indicates what happens immediately after the pause.
Subject Placement: The subject can come before or after '接着', but placing it before ('他接着说') is more common in standard Mandarin, while placing it after ('接着他又说') adds a slightly more narrative, dramatic flair.

请你接着往下读。(Please continue reading downwards/next.)

One interesting grammatical feature of 接着 is its ability to function as a verb in specific contexts, meaning 'to catch' or 'to take over.' For instance, if someone throws you a ball, they might shout '接着!' (Catch it!). Or if someone is tired of driving, they might ask you to '接接着开' (take over the driving). However, in its adverbial form, which is more common at the A2 level, it is strictly about sequence. It is important to note that 接着 is often paired with the particle '又' (yòu) or '再' (zài) to indicate a repetition of an action in a sequence, such as '接着又问了一遍' (then asked once more). This combination strengthens the sense of an ongoing, unfolding process.

第一节课是中文，接着是数学。(The first period is Chinese, and the next is Math.)

In complex sentences, 接着 can help manage multiple subjects. For example, '老师讲完了，接着学生们开始提问' (The teacher finished speaking, then the students began to ask questions). In this case, it acts as a transition between two different agents of action. This is a step up from A1 level Chinese where sentences are often isolated. By using 接着, you are showing the listener how different parts of a scene or story interact over time. It is a vital tool for achieving cohesion in both spoken and written Chinese, allowing for a logical flow that guides the listener through your thoughts.

The 'Continue' Aspect: When used to mean 'continue,' it implies that an action was paused or that the next step is the logical extension of the current state.

别停，接着跳舞！(Don't stop, continue dancing!)

You will encounter 接着 (jiēzhe) in almost every corner of Chinese daily life. In a classroom setting, a teacher might finish explaining a grammar point and say, '接着，我们看练习' (Next, let's look at the exercises). In a professional environment, during a presentation, a speaker might use it to transition between slides: '接着我们要讨论的是市场趋势' (Next, what we want to discuss are the market trends). It is the quintessential word for 'moving on' to the next item on an agenda. Because it is neutral in register, it fits perfectly in both a formal boardroom and a casual dinner conversation among friends.

In the Kitchen: Cooking shows and recipes are full of '接着.' '先放油，接着放入姜片' (First put in oil, then put in ginger slices).
In Sports and Games: You'll hear it as a command to catch a ball or to indicate whose turn it is next in a game sequence.

球传给你了，快接着！(The ball is passed to you, catch it quickly!)

If you enjoy watching Chinese TV dramas or movies, pay attention to how characters tell stories. When a character is recounting a dramatic event, they will use 接着 to build tension. '我打开门，接着看到了一封信' (I opened the door, and then I saw a letter). It creates a sense of 'and then, immediately...' that keeps the listener engaged. In news broadcasts, anchors use it to link related news stories: '接着来看下一条新闻' (Next, let's look at the next news item). This usage highlights its role as a professional transition tool that maintains the flow of information without sounding repetitive.

我们先去吃饭，接着去唱歌，怎么样？(We'll go eat first, then go singing, how about that?)

Public transport announcements also frequently use this logic, though they might use more formal variants like '下一站' (next station). However, if an announcement is explaining a multi-step process for using an automated ticket machine, 接着 will likely appear. In essence, whenever there is a sequence—be it a series of actions, a list of items, or a progression of time—this word is the natural choice. It is so common that once you start listening for it, you will hear it dozens of times a day in any Chinese-speaking environment, from the market to the office.

Storytelling: Narrators use it to lead the audience from one scene to the next, emphasizing that the plot is moving forward without delay.

天黑了，接着下起了大雨。(It got dark, and then it started raining heavily.)

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make is confusing 接着 (jiēzhe) with 然后 (ránhòu). While both can be translated as 'then,' they are not always interchangeable. 然后 is a general conjunction that can connect any two events, even if there is a long time gap between them. For example, 'I graduated from college, then (然后) I got married five years later.' In this case, using 接着 would be awkward because 接着 implies a much closer sequence. If you say '接着我结婚了,' it sounds like you walked off the graduation stage and straight into the wedding ceremony!

Mistake 1: Logical Gaps: Using '接着' for events separated by significant time or unrelated contexts. Stick to '然后' for broad chronological steps.
Mistake 2: Word Order: Placing '接着' at the end of a sentence. In English, we can say 'And then?', but in Chinese, you usually need a verb: '接着呢?' (What follows next?) or '接着说' (Continue speaking).

Incorrect: 我吃饭，然后我睡觉，接着。(I eat, then sleep, next.)
Correct: 我吃饭，接着睡觉。(I eat, then [immediately] sleep.)

Another common mistake involves the 'catch' vs. 'then' meanings. Students sometimes try to use 接着 to mean 'receive' in a general sense, like receiving a gift. However, 接着 as a verb specifically implies catching something in motion or taking over a continuous task. For receiving a static object like a present, '收到' (shōudào) is the correct term. Additionally, some learners confuse 接着 with 连续 (liánxù). While 连续 means 'continuously' or 'in a row' (e.g., three days in a row), 接着 focuses on the transition point between two specific actions.

他接着写了三个小时。(He continued writing for three hours [after a start point or pause].)

Finally, be careful with the tone. Since 接着 is jiēzhe (first tone and neutral tone), learners often accidentally put too much stress on the second syllable or mispronounce the first as a second tone (jié). This can make the word sound like '结' (jié - to tie/knot), which changes the meaning entirely. Clear pronunciation of the high-level first tone on 'jiē' is crucial for being understood. Remember that 接着 is a bridge; it should sound like it's leading into the next part of the sentence, not like a heavy, final stop.

Confusion with 随后 (suíhòu): '随后' is more formal and often used in writing. In daily conversation, '接着' is the much more natural choice for 'immediately after.'

When exploring synonyms for 接着 (jiēzhe), it's important to understand the subtle differences in formality and temporal distance. The most common alternative is 然后 (ránhòu). As discussed, 然后 is the general-purpose 'then' or 'afterward.' It is the safest choice if you aren't sure about the immediacy of the sequence. However, if you want to sound more precise about things happening back-to-back, 接着 is superior. Another close relative is 紧接着 (jǐnjiēzhe), where '紧' (jǐn) means 'tightly.' This version is even more emphatic about the lack of a gap, translating to 'immediately following' or 'hot on the heels of.'

然后 (ránhòu): The most common 'then.' Used for chronological steps, even with large time gaps. '先A，然后B.'
随后 (suíhòu): More formal/literary. Often used in news reports or formal writing to mean 'shortly thereafter.'
继而 (jì'ér): Very formal. Used in written literature to show a progression of states or actions, often with a cause-and-effect nuance.

他愣了一下，继而大笑起来。(He was stunned for a moment, then [subsequently] burst into laughter.)

If you are looking for a word that means 'continue' rather than 'then,' you might consider 继续 (jìxù). While 接着 can mean 'continue,' 继续 is the more standard verb for 'to carry on' or 'to resume.' For example, '继续努力' (continue to work hard) is a fixed phrase where 接着 wouldn't fit as well. 接着 usually implies continuing from a specific point in a sequence, whereas 继续 is more about the persistence of the action itself. In spoken Chinese, you will also hear 再 (zài) used to mean 'then' in simple instructions: '洗手，再吃饭' (Wash hands, then eat). 再 is shorter and more casual than 接着.

我们要继续合作。(We need to continue cooperating.) vs. 我们接着谈合作的事。(We'll continue [now] talking about the cooperation.)

For the meaning of 'to catch,' synonyms include 接住 (jiēzhù). Adding the resultative complement '住' (zhù) makes it clear that the catching was successful—you caught and held onto the object. This is more common when describing the physical act than just the command 接着. Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the exact right 'then' or 'continue' for your situation, making your Chinese both accurate and expressive. As you progress to higher levels (B1 and B2), you will find that choosing between 接着, 随后, and 继而 is a key part of developing a 'native feel' for the language.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word '接着' perfectly illustrates how physical actions (catching a baton) evolve into abstract concepts of time (then/next). It's a linguistic 'relay race'!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dʒjɛ́ dʒə/

US /dʒjɛ́ dʒə/

The primary stress is on the first syllable 'jiē', while 'zhe' is unstressed and very short.

Rhymes With

街 (jiē) 阶 (jiē) 皆 (jiē) 接 (jiē) 结 (jié - near rhyme) 解 (jiě - near rhyme) 姐 (jiě - near rhyme) 借 (jiè - near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'jiē' with a second tone (jié) like 'to tie'.
Making the 'zhe' syllable too long or giving it a full tone.
Failing to use the retroflex 'zh' in 'zhe', making it sound like 'ze'.
Pronouncing 'jiē' as 'jī' (like the letter G).
Over-emphasizing the second syllable, which should be neutral.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easily recognized in text as it often follows a comma.

Writing 3/5

Requires correct placement before the verb and knowledge of the 'zhe' character.

Speaking 2/5

Very common in daily speech; easy to use once the 'then' concept is clear.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sound, though 'zhe' can be quite short.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

先 (xiān) 和 (hé) 做 (zuò) 看 (kàn) 去 (qù)

Learn Next

然后 (ránhòu) 继续 (jìxù) 随后 (suíhòu) 最后 (zuìhòu) 连续 (liánxù)

Advanced

继而 (jì'ér) 承袭 (chéngxí) 接踵而至 (jiēzhǒng ér zhì)

Grammar to Know

Adverbial Placement

接着 + Verb (e.g., 接着说)

Resultative Complements

接住 (Catch successfully)

Sequential Marker

先...接着... (First... then...)

Neutral Tone

着 (zhe) is neutral in this compound.

Subject Flexibility

我接着说 vs 接着我说 (Both possible, first is more common)

Examples by Level

我喝茶，接着吃饭。

I drink tea, then eat.

Simple sequence of two actions.

他看书，接着睡觉。

He reads a book, then sleeps.

接着 connects two verbs.

我们先去商店，接着回家。

We go to the store first, then go home.

Using '先' (first) with '接着'.

洗手，接着吃苹果。

Wash hands, then eat an apple.

Imperative sequence.

老师说，接着学生说。

The teacher speaks, then the student speaks.

Sequence with different subjects.

我买本子，接着买笔。

I buy a notebook, then buy a pen.

Sequential shopping actions.

开灯，接着看电视。

Turn on the light, then watch TV.

Direct sequence of actions.

你先走，我接着走。

You go first, I'll follow.

Sequence in movement.

他写完作业，接着去打球了。

He finished his homework, then went to play ball.

Completed action followed by the next.

请接着读课文。

Please continue reading the text.

接着 used as 'continue'.

电影结束了，接着灯亮了。

The movie ended, then the lights came on.

Event sequence in a public setting.

别停下，接着跑！

Don't stop, keep running!

Imperative for continuation.

我刚才在洗澡，接着你打来了电话。

I was just showering, and then you called.

Sequence of events in a narrative.

听完这首歌，接着听那一首。

After listening to this song, then listen to that one.

Sequence of listening.

他喝了一口水，接着又开始讲故事。

He took a sip of water, then started telling stories again.

Sequence with '又' for repetition.

我们先讨论第一题，接着讨论第二题。

We discuss the first question first, then the second.

Structured sequence of discussion.

处理完这些文件，接着就要准备开会了。

After processing these documents, I have to prepare for the meeting.

Professional workflow sequence.

雨停了，接着太阳出来了。

The rain stopped, and then the sun came out.

Natural sequence of events.

他没说话，接着叹了一口气。

He didn't speak, then he let out a sigh.

Sequence of subtle actions.

把这几本书看完，接着再看那几本。

Finish reading these few books, then read those few.

Sequence of tasks.

警察问了几个问题，接着带走了那个人。

The police asked a few questions, then took that person away.

Narrative sequence in a report.

由于断电，会议中断了，来电后我们接着开。

The meeting was interrupted due to a power cut; we'll continue after the power is back.

Resuming an action after an interruption.

我把球扔过去，你接着！

I'll throw the ball over, you catch it!

接着 used as the verb 'to catch'.

他先是愣住了，接着笑了起来。

He was stunned at first, then started laughing.

Sequence of emotional reactions.

公司在上海设立了办事处，接着又在北京开了分公司。

The company set up an office in Shanghai, and then opened a branch in Beijing.

Business expansion sequence.

紧接着刚才的话题，我想再补充几点。

Following up on the topic just now, I'd like to add a few more points.

Using '紧接着' for immediate follow-up.

他因病住院，接着他的工作由我负责。

He was hospitalized due to illness, and subsequently, I became responsible for his work.

Sequential consequence of an event.

看完这出戏，接着还有一场音乐会。

After watching this play, there is still a concert following it.

Sequence of scheduled events.

他先把窗户关上，接着拉上了窗帘。

He first closed the window, then pulled the curtains.

Detailed sequence of physical actions.

在第一轮比赛中他赢了，接着在第二轮又赢了。

He won in the first round, and then won again in the second round.

Sequence of repeated success.

这种现象首先出现在南方，接着传到了北方。

This phenomenon first appeared in the south, then spread to the north.

Geographical sequence of events.

他放下电话，接着陷入了沉思。

He put down the phone, then fell into deep thought.

Action followed by a state of mind.

作者在第一章描述了背景，接着在第二章引入了主角。

The author described the background in the first chapter, then introduced the protagonist in the second.

Literary structure sequence.

随着技术的突破，接着而来的是产业的全面变革。

With the technological breakthrough, what followed was a comprehensive transformation of the industry.

Abstract cause and effect sequence.

他拒绝了我们的提议，接着又提出了一个更苛刻的条件。

He rejected our proposal, and then proceeded to propose an even more demanding condition.

Sequence of escalating actions.

那场演说极具煽动性，接着便爆发了大规模的游行。

That speech was highly inflammatory, and subsequently, large-scale protests broke out.

Historical/Narrative sequence.

他不仅完成了任务，接着还主动要求承担更多责任。

He not only completed the task but then also took the initiative to ask for more responsibility.

Sequence showing initiative.

第一波攻击被击退了，但接着第二波更加猛烈的进攻开始了。

The first wave of attacks was repelled, but then a second, more violent offensive began.

Sequence in a conflict scenario.

由于管理不善，公司陷入亏损，接着便面临破产的危机。

Due to poor management, the company fell into losses, and then faced the crisis of bankruptcy.

Sequence of organizational decline.

他先是感到愤怒，接着是无奈，最后只剩下深深的悲哀。

He felt anger at first, then helplessness, and finally only deep sorrow remained.

Complex sequence of emotions.

这种思想在启蒙运动时期生根，接着影响了整个现代政治体系。

This thought took root during the Enlightenment, and subsequently influenced the entire modern political system.

Historical/Philosophical sequence.

紧接着全球气候变暖的议题，专家们探讨了生物多样性的丧失。

Following closely on the issue of global warming, experts explored the loss of biodiversity.

Academic discourse sequence.

老一辈的工匠离去了，谁来接着传承这份古老的手艺？

The older generation of craftsmen has passed away; who will take over the inheritance of this ancient craft?

Metaphorical use of 'catch/take over'.

他在政坛失势，接着遭到了昔日盟友的背叛，晚景极其凄凉。

He lost power in politics, and subsequently suffered betrayal by former allies, making his later years extremely bleak.

Narrative sequence in biography.

如果这一步走错了，接着的每一步都将步入歧途。

If this step is taken wrongly, every subsequent step will go astray.

Conditional sequence of logic.

他先以温和的手段试探，接着便露出了狰狞的真面目。

He first tested the waters with mild means, and then revealed his hideous true colors.

Sequence showing character revelation.

在学术界，一个假说的提出，接着往往是无数次的验证与质疑。

In academia, the proposal of a hypothesis is often followed by countless verifications and doubts.

Generalized sequence in a process.

这场雪下了一整夜，接着整个城市都变成了银装素裹的世界。

The snow fell all night, and subsequently the entire city turned into a world wrapped in silver.

Poetic sequence of natural transformation.

Common Collocations

接着说

接着看

紧接着

接着做

接着听

接着写

接着开

接着问

接着唱

接着走

Common Phrases

接着呢？

— And then? (Used to prompt someone to continue their story).

你说你见到了他，接着呢？

你接着说

— You continue speaking (I'm listening).

别管电话，你接着说你的计划。

接着干

— Keep working / carry on with the job.

虽然很累，但我们得接着干。

接着来

— Keep coming / next one come forward.

一个一个来，做完的接着来领奖。

接着上回

— Continuing from last time.

今天我们接着上回的内容讲。

接接着

— Colloquial way of saying 'catch it' or 'take over'.

球来了，接接着！

接着就是

— The very next thing is...

过了这条街，接着就是超市。

没法接着

— Unable to continue or unable to catch.

你这话我没法接着说下去了。

接着往下

— Continue downwards (as in reading or moving).

请接着往下看第三段。

接着办

— Continue to handle / proceed with the matter.

这件事我会接着办好的。

Often Confused With

接着 vs 然后 (ránhòu)

然后 is more general; 接着 is more immediate.

接着 vs 继续 (jìxù)

继续 is 'to continue' as a main verb; 接着 is often 'next' as an adverb.

接着 vs 随后 (suíhòu)

随后 is more formal and used in writing.

Idioms & Expressions

"接二连三"

— One after another; in quick succession.

好消息接二连三地传来。

Common

"承前启后"

— To follow the past and herald the future (related to the concept of connecting).

这是一部承前启后的重要著作。

Formal

"接踵而至"

— To follow hard on the heels of; to come in rapid succession.

各种困难接踵而至。

Formal

"后继有人"

— To have qualified successors to carry on the cause.

我们的事业后继有人。

Formal

"薪尽火传"

— The fire is passed on although the fuel is consumed (passing the torch).

古老的文化薪尽火传，至今仍有活力。

Literary

"接风洗尘"

— To give a dinner of welcome to a visitor (uses '接' in the sense of receiving/meeting).

我们今晚为你接风洗尘。

Common

"继往开来"

— To carry forward the cause and forge ahead into the future.

我们要继往开来，创造更好的明天。

Formal

"应接不暇"

— More than one can attend to; overwhelmed with visitors/tasks.

美景太多，让人应接不暇。

Common

"短兵相接"

— To fight hand-to-hand; to engage in close combat.

双方在阵地前短兵相接。

Literary

"藕断丝连"

— The lotus root is snapped but the fibers remain joined (still connected despite a break).

他们虽然分手了，但还是藕断丝连。

Common

Easily Confused

接着 vs 连续 (liánxù)

Both involve things happening one after another.

连续 means 'continuously' without stopping (e.g., for 3 days). 接着 means the next step in a sequence.

他连续工作了三天。(He worked for 3 days straight.) vs. 他做完这个，接着做那个。(He did this, then that.)

接着 vs 接连 (jiēlián)

Similar 'connecting' meaning.

接连 is an adverb meaning 'in a row' or 'successively.'

接连发生了很多事。(Many things happened in a row.)

接着 vs 还是 (háishì)

Sometimes learners think 'continue' means 'still'.

还是 means 'still' (ongoing state). 接着 means 'continue' (resuming or next step).

他还在吃。(He is still eating.) vs. 他停了一下，接着吃。(He stopped, then continued eating.)

接着 vs 以后 (yǐhòu)

Both relate to future/after.

以后 means 'after' or 'in the future' (broad). 接着 is specifically 'next' in a sequence.

以后我要去中国。(In the future I will go to China.) vs. 我去上海，接着去北京。(I go to Shanghai, then Beijing.)

接着 vs 刚才 (gāngcái)

Time-related.

刚才 means 'just now' (past). 接着 means 'next' (relative sequence).

刚才他在这儿。(He was here just now.)

Sentence Patterns

我 + Verb1，接着 + Verb2。

我喝水，接着吃饭。

请 + 接着 + Verb。

请接着看。

先...接着...。

先洗手，接着吃饭。

Action 1 + 完了，接着 + Action 2。

写完作业，接着去玩。

接着 + 又 + Verb。

他停了一下，接着又问。

紧接着...。

紧接着，天黑了。

接着 + 而 + 来 + 的 + 是...。

接着而来的是经济危机。

由 + Person + 接着 + Verb。

由你接着传承这项手艺。

Word Family

Nouns

接力 (jièlì) - relay

接班人 (jiēbānrén) - successor

Verbs

连接 (liánjiē) - to connect

接受 (jiēshòu) - to accept

接待 (jiēdài) - to receive guests

接手 (jiēshǒu) - to take over

Adjectives

接近 (jiējìn) - near/close

然后 (ránhòu)

继续 (jìxù)

随后 (suíhòu)

连续 (liánxù)

接连 (jiēlián)

How to Use It

frequency

Very High in both spoken and written Mandarin.

Common Mistakes

我喝水接着。 → 我接着喝水。
Adverbs must come before the verb, not at the end of the sentence.
他五年以前去中国，接着他去日本。 → 他五年以前去中国，然后他去日本。
Use 然后 for long time gaps; 接着 is for immediate sequences.
我收到球了。 → 我接住球了。
Use 接住 for catching a moving object; 收到 is for receiving mail or gifts.
接着说吗？ → 接着说吧。
Using '吗' makes it a question; use '吧' or just the phrase for a suggestion or command.
他接着还是工作。 → 他还在工作。
If the action never stopped, use '还在', not '接着'.

Tips

Placement

Always place 接着 before the verb of the second action. Don't put it after the verb.

Tone

Keep the first tone high and steady. If you drop it, it might sound like a different word.

Context

If you hear '接着' shouted at a park, someone is probably playing catch!

Characters

Practice the '扌' (hand) radical in '接' to remember its physical meaning of 'catching'.

Synonyms

Use '然后' for big steps and '接着' for small, quick steps.

Transitions

Use '接着呢？' to show you are interested in someone's story.

Imperatives

Use '接着做' to encourage someone to keep going with their work.

HSK Tip

接着 is a common word in HSK 2 and 3 reading comprehensions involving sequences.

Social

In a group meeting, use '接着讨论' to bring the focus back after a distraction.

Variety

Mix '接着', '然后', and '再' to make your Chinese sound more varied and less repetitive.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'J' (Jiē) for 'Join' and 'Zhe' for 'the next step.' You are 'Joining' two actions together.

Visual Association

Imagine a relay race runner catching a baton. That act of 'catching and continuing' is exactly what 接着 represents.

Word Web

接 (Connect) 接着 (Then/Catch) 接球 (Catch ball) 接电话 (Answer phone) 接着说 (Continue speaking) 紧接着 (Immediately after) 接力 (Relay) 接班 (Take over shift)

Challenge

Try to describe your morning routine using 接着 at least three times without using '然后'.

Word Origin

The character 接 (jiē) consists of the hand radical '扌' and the phonetic component '妾' (qiè). Historically, it meant to catch or receive someone with the hands. The character 着 (zhe) evolved from '著' and has various functions, but in this compound, it acts as a resultative or durative particle.

Original meaning: The original meaning of the compound '接着' was to physically catch something or to receive someone who is arriving.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; it is a very common, neutral word.

English speakers often over-use 'and then' (然后). Learning '接着' helps them sound more natural and precise about timing.

Used frequently in the 'Xiangsheng' (Crosstalk) comedy to keep the rapid-fire dialogue moving. Commonly heard in the opening lines of sequels to Chinese TV shows: '接着上集...' (Continuing from the last episode...). Appears in many modern Chinese pop songs to describe a sequence of romantic events.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Daily Routine

起床接着刷牙
吃完饭接着上班
回家接着做饭
洗澡接着睡觉

Classroom

接着读课文
接着看黑板
接着做练习
接着听我说

Sports

快接着球
接着跑不要停
由他接着打
接着传球

Work

接着开会
接着讨论
接着写报告
由你接着办

Storytelling

接着发生了什么
接着他走了
接着天亮了
接着又来了一个人

Conversation Starters

"你刚才说你去了北京，接着呢？去哪儿了？ (You just said you went to Beijing, then what? Where did you go?)"

"我们可以先喝咖啡，接着去逛街吗？ (Can we drink coffee first, then go shopping?)"

"如果你累了，我可以接着开车。 (If you are tired, I can continue driving / take over.)"

"这个电影看完后，我们接着看那一集吧？ (After finishing this movie, shall we continue with that episode?)"

"老师刚才讲到哪儿了？我们接着听吧。 (Where did the teacher just stop? Let's continue listening.)"

Journal Prompts

描述你今天早上的三个动作，用‘接着’连接它们。 (Describe three actions from your morning, connecting them with '接着'.)

如果你在做一个很难的任务，你会怎么接着做下去？ (If you are doing a difficult task, how will you continue to do it?)

写一个小故事：一个人在路上走，接着看到了一件奇怪的事。 (Write a short story: A person is walking on the road, then sees something strange.)

谈谈你学习中文的计划：先学什么，接着学什么？ (Talk about your plan for learning Chinese: What to learn first, then what?)

描述一场球赛，用到‘接着’这个词。 (Describe a ball game using the word '接着'.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, you can, but it usually refers back to something mentioned in the previous sentence. For example: '他走了。接着，我也走了。' (He left. Then, I left too.)

No. 'And' (和) connects nouns. 接着 connects actions or events in a sequence. You cannot say 'I and then you' using only 接着.

紧接着 is more emphatic. The '紧' means 'tight,' so it implies there was absolutely no gap between the two events.

Yes, as long as you are describing them as a sequence. 'He was born in 1990, then (接着) moved to Paris in 1991.'

Usually, yes, unless it's the command '接着!' (Catch!) or the question '接着呢?' (And then?).

It is jiēzhe. The second syllable is a neutral tone.

Yes, if the person had stopped or if you are telling them what to do next. It means 'proceed to eat' or 'resume eating'.

You can say '接住球' (jiēzhù qiú) or just '接着球' (jiēzhe qiú).

No, it is purely temporal/sequential, not causal. Use '因为' for because.

Not necessarily. Both are common in daily speech, but 接着 is more precise about the sequence.