Meaning
分别 has multiple related meanings centered around the concept of separation or distinction. As an adverb, it means 'separately' or 'respectively,' indicating that different actions apply to different subjects. As a verb, it means 'to part' (say goodbye) or 'to distinguish between' things. As a noun, it refers to the act of parting or separation.
Usage
The adverbial use is extremely common in both spoken and written Chinese when listing items or describing parallel actions. The verb meaning 'to part' carries emotional weight and is often used in formal or literary contexts. When meaning 'to distinguish,' it's often followed by specific things being differentiated. Native speakers frequently use 分别 in presentations, reports, and explanations to organize information clearly.
Examples
- 01这三个学生分别来自中国、日本和韩国。, .These three students come from China, Japan, and Korea respectively.
- 02离别的时候，我们都哭了。, .When we parted, we all cried.
Characters
Common collocations
- 分别是are respectively
- 久别重逢reunion after long separation
- 难舍难分hard to part
- 分别对待to treat differently
Antonyms
Origin
Combines 分 (to divide/separate) with 别 (to distinguish/part), creating a compound that emphasizes both physical separation and conceptual distinction.