Meaning and Usage
The idiom 接二连三 (jiē’èr-liánsān) describes events or actions happening continuously and repeatedly, often with a negative or troublesome connotation. It literally means "one after another" or "in succession."
Common Contexts
This phrase is frequently used to describe a series of problems, accidents, or annoyances occurring without pause. For example, continuous rain, repeated accidents, or persistent questioning.
Collocations and Patterns
- 接二连三地 + verb: emphasizes the continuous and repeated nature of the action.
- 接二连三发生 (happen one after another): often used for incidents or events.
Nuance and Register
The phrase carries a slightly negative tone, implying that the repeated occurrences are unwelcome or troublesome. It is commonly used in spoken and written Chinese in both formal and informal contexts.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 接二连三 with 络绎不绝, which emphasizes a continuous flow but not necessarily with a negative tone. 接二连三 stresses repetition and often problems or annoyances.