Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
何况(何況)hékuàng(he2kuang4)
The phrase 何况 (hé kuàng) is used to introduce an additional point that strengthens an argument, often translating to 'let alone' or 'not to mention' in English. It emphasizes that if the first statement is true, then the following statement is even more so, commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to add emphasis or contrast.
Frequency#6917DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese rhetoric, emphasizing a point by stating a stronger one is a common persuasive technique, often found in debates and discussions. This reflects the value placed on logical reasoning and argumentation in Chinese communication.
Memory Tip
Think of 何 (hé) as 'what' and 况 (kuàng) as 'situation.' Picture a situation where you have one challenging task, and you realize that if that task is hard, then the next one is even harder – thus, let alone! Imagine saying, 'What about this situation; let alone the next one!'
Meanings of 何况
hékuàng(he2kuang4)
1let alone
2to say nothing of
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 何况
何况Simplified
何況Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
连词连词conjunction (conj.)Part of Speech
#6917Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L5HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 何况
Podcast: 何况
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 何况
Memory Mnemonic
Think of 何 (hé) as 'what' and 况 (kuàng) as 'situation.' Picture a situation where you have one challenging task, and you realize that if that task is hard, then the next one is even harder – thus, let alone! Imagine saying, 'What about this situation; let alone the next one!'
Usage Notes
Common mistakes include using 何况 in contexts where it doesn't strengthen the previous statement. It is more formal than casual speech, so it's best used in writing or formal conversations. Be cautious with tone: the first character is in the second tone, and the second character is in the fourth tone.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 word, 何况 connects well with other conjunctions and phrases that express contrast or addition, such as 不说 (bù shuō, 'not to mention') and 更 (gèng, 'even more'). Focus on using it in complex sentences to enhance your fluency.
Cultural Note
In Chinese rhetoric, emphasizing a point by stating a stronger one is a common persuasive technique, often found in debates and discussions. This reflects the value placed on logical reasoning and argumentation in Chinese communication.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 何况 with 也 (yě, 'also'), using it incorrectly in simple statements. For example, saying '他喜欢狗，何况猫' should be corrected to '他喜欢狗，也喜欢猫' (He likes dogs and also likes cats).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 何况
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 何况 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 何况 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 何况
何况 functions as a conjunction — it connects clauses or phrases. Many Chinese conjunctions come in pairs (虽然…但是…, 因为…所以…); use them at the front of the clauses they link. It carries 4 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Even grown - ups can't lift it, to say nothing of children.
Cultural Notes for 何况
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese rhetoric, emphasizing a point by stating a stronger one is a common persuasive technique, often found in debates and discussions. This reflects the value placed on logical reasoning and argumentation in Chinese communication.
Frequently Asked Questions about 何况
Yes, but it's more suitable for formal contexts, like writing or speeches.
No, while both indicate addition, 甚至 (shèn zhì) implies 'even' in a surprising context, whereas 何况 reinforces a statement.
Typically, it follows a statement, like '他不喜欢吃水果，何况蔬菜。' (He doesn't like eating fruit, let alone vegetables.)
