HSK 4
⋯⋯，于是⋯⋯
⋯ ⋯ ， yú shì ⋯ ⋯
Using '于是' to indicate a result or subsequent action
Explanation
于是 (yúshì) is a conjunction (a word that links clauses) used in a compound sentence (a sentence with two or more clauses linked by a correlative), placed in the latter clause to state a result or a subsequent action that occurs because of the preceding clause; it means "so", "thereupon".
clause 1 (cause/situation), + 于是 (yúshì) + clause 2 (subsequent action).
他不喜欢这个工作，于是离开了这家公司 he didn't like this job, so he left the company.
when two events follow one another in temporal sequence and the latter arises naturally from the former; the emphasis is on the progression of events.
于是 (yúshì, thereupon) emphasizes an action that FOLLOWS in temporal sequence; while 所以 (suǒyǐ, therefore) emphasizes a logical CAUSE-AND-EFFECT relationship (often paired with 因为 because). For a naturally following event use 于是, for cause-and-effect reasoning use 所以.
using 于是 for purely logical reasoning (should use 所以); or adding a subject right before 于是 — 于是 stands at the head of the latter clause, and the subject (if any) is placed after 于是.
Examples
The wind stopped and it began to rain, so people hurriedly put up their umbrellas.
He didn't like this job, so he left the company.
It was still early before the meeting, so we went for a stroll around the bookstore.
Practice
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Learn “⋯⋯，于是⋯⋯” effectively
The grammar point “⋯⋯，于是⋯⋯” (Using '于是' to indicate a result or subsequent action) is one of the key structures at HSK 4. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
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