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而已

ér yǐ

HSK 7–9

Meaning

  • that's all
  • nothing more

Definition

表示限止语气，相当于‘罢了’。

Indicates a limiting tone, equivalent to 'just' or 'merely'.

Usage

常置于句末，表示事情不过如此，有减轻或淡化前面所述内容的作用。

Often placed at the end of a sentence to indicate that something is not important or significant, softening or downplaying the preceding statement.

Examples

  • 1 我只是开个玩笑而已，别当真。 (I was just joking, don't take it seriously.)
  • 2 这件事很简单，只是花点时间而已。 (This matter is very simple, it just takes a little time.)
  • 3 他不过是个普通员工而已，别太高估他。 (He is just an ordinary employee, don't overestimate him.)
  • 4 我问问而已，没有别的意思。 (I was just asking, no other intention.)
  • 5 别担心，只是一个小问题而已。 (Don't worry, it's just a small problem.)

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