Comparing “bǐcǐ” and “hùxiāng”
彼此 vs 互相
Comparison section · original #19 · level order #112
How it works
Both 彼此 (bǐcǐ) and 互相 (hùxiāng) mean “each other.” But they are used differently.
互相 (hùxiāng) usually appears before a verb and focuses on mutual action.
彼此 (bǐcǐ) often refers to both sides themselves, their relationship, or mutual understanding.
Example sentences
在团队合作当中,最重要的是互相信任。
In teamwork, the most important thing is to trust each other.
虽然认识很多年了,但他们对彼此的家庭情况其实并不了解。
Although they have known each other for many years, they actually do not understand each other’s family situations very well.
两个人要想真正走得长远,不但要学会互相支持,也要懂得尊重彼此的选择。
If two people want to truly go far together, they must not only learn to support each other, but also understand how to respect each other’s choices.
Key point
互相 (hùxiāng) is more action-oriented; 彼此 (bǐcǐ) is more relationship-oriented.