如此 is an adverb meaning 'thus', 'so', or 'like this'. It combines the characters 如 (rú), meaning 'as' or 'like', and 此 (cǐ), meaning 'this'. Together, they literally mean 'like this' or 'in this way', and function as a single unit to modify verbs, adjectives, or entire clauses. It often emphasizes degree or manner — for example, expressing surprise at how extreme something is ('so... that...') or indicating a logical consequence ('therefore', 'thus').

It’s commonly used in both written and formal spoken Chinese, though less frequent in casual daily speech than simpler alternatives like 这么 or 那么. 如此 frequently appears before adjectives (e.g., 如此美丽) or verbs (e.g., 如此决定), and can introduce a result clause when paired with 以至于 or 因此. It carries a slightly literary or emphatic tone, making it suitable for essays, speeches, or emotionally charged statements.