yúshì: 于是 - So, Therefore, Consequently

Keywords: 于是, yushi, Chinese grammar, Chinese conjunction, so, therefore, consequently, as a result, how to use yushi, yushi vs suoyi, Chinese connectors, cause and effect in Chinese

Summary: Learn how to use the essential Chinese conjunction 于是 (yúshì), meaning 'so', 'therefore', or 'consequently'. This guide breaks down 于是 to show how it connects cause and effect in sentences, making your Chinese sound more natural and logical. We'll cover its core meaning, provide practical examples, and compare it to similar words like 所以 (suǒyǐ) to avoid common mistakes for beginners.

Pinyin (with tone marks): yúshì

Part of Speech: Conjunction

HSK Level: HSK 3

Concise Definition: A conjunction used to connect a cause or preceding event with a subsequent result or action.

In a Nutshell: Think of 于是 (yúshì) as the bridge between two events in a story. It signifies “and so…” or “as a result…”. It's used when one action naturally and immediately leads to the next, often in a narrative sequence. It emphasizes the progression of events rather than just a cold, logical conclusion.

于 (yú): A versatile preposition that can mean “at,” “in,” “on,” or “from.” In this context, it functions as a starting point, like saying “stemming from this…” or “at this point…”.

是 (shì): The fundamental character for “to be” or “yes.” It confirms the reality or state of being.

When combined, 于是 (yúshì) literally suggests “from this, it is that…” or “at this point, it is so…”. This creates the meaning of “so,” “therefore,” or “thereupon,” linking a prior situation to its direct outcome.

While 于是 (yúshì) is a grammatical tool, its frequent use highlights a feature of Chinese narrative style: a preference for clear, sequential storytelling. It's less about a formal, logical argument (like “therefore” in a Western philosophical proof) and more about the natural, often immediate, unfolding of events.

In English, we might choose between “so,” “then,” “consequently,” or “therefore” based on formality. 于是 (yúshì) captures a specific narrative flavor that is close to “and so it came to be that…” or “thereupon…”. It makes the listener or reader feel like they are following a story, where one event logically and chronologically follows the last. This reflects a straightforward, event-driven way of recounting history, stories, and even personal anecdotes.

Formality: 于是 is neutral but leans slightly more towards written or structured spoken Chinese compared to the more colloquial 所以 (suǒyǐ). It's common in news reports, formal recounts, and written narratives, but you'll also hear it in everyday conversation when telling a story.

The most common point of confusion for learners is the difference between 于是 (yúshì) and 所以 (suǒyǐ). They can both be translated as “so,” but they are not interchangeable.

所以 (suǒyǐ) - The most similar term, but emphasizes a logical conclusion or result rather than a chronological sequence. The direct counterpart to “because”.

因此 (yīncǐ) - A more formal and written version of 所以, meaning “therefore” or “for this reason.”

然后 (ránhòu) - Means “then” or “afterwards.” It indicates a simple sequence in time without the cause-and-effect link implied by 于是. (First I did A, then I did B).

结果 (jiéguǒ) - Means “as a result” or “in the end.” It is a noun that can also function as a conjunction to introduce the final outcome of a situation, often with a sense of finality.

因为 (yīnwèi) - Means “because.” It introduces the reason or cause, and is very frequently paired with 所以.

接着 (jiēzhe) - Means “next” or “to continue on.” It emphasizes that the second action follows the first without a break. It's purely about continuation, not cause-and-effect.