而且 (ér qiě) is a coordinating conjunction meaning 'moreover' or 'furthermore'. It links two related statements, adding emphasis to the second idea — usually something that strengthens, extends, or supports the first. The character 而 (ér) historically means 'and' or 'but', often indicating contrast or connection; 且 (qiě) means 'also', 'still', or 'besides'. Together, they form a fixed compound expressing additive logic — not mere listing, but logical progression or reinforcement.

This word appears frequently in spoken and written Mandarin, especially in explanations, arguments, or justifications. It’s neutral in register — appropriate in both casual conversation and formal writing — and always comes before the clause it introduces. Unlike English 'and', 而且 cannot begin a sentence; it must connect clauses within the same sentence. It typically follows another clause (often introduced by a comma), and the second clause should carry new, reinforcing information.