Definition
异同 is a formal noun that literally combines 'difference' (异) and 'sameness' (同), meaning 'similarities and differences' — used when comparing two or more things. In classical Chinese and formal writing, it can also carry the sense of 'objection' or 'dissent' (as in 有异同 'have objections'), but this usage is rare in modern spoken Chinese. You'll most often see it in academic, analytical, or comparative contexts.
n.
similarities and differences (in comparison)(formal/literary) objectiondissent
Examples
- 异同。Zhè piān wénzhāng fēnxī le liǎng zhǒng wénhuà de yì tóng.This article analyzes the similarities and differences between two cultures.
- 异同。Bǐjiào liǎng zhǒng zhìdù de yì tóng shì yánjiū zhòngdiǎn.Comparing the similarities and differences of the two systems is the research focus.
- 异同，。Huì shàng wú rén tíchū yì tóng, fāng'àn shùnlì tōngguò.No one raised any objections at the meeting, and the plan passed smoothly.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.