‘陪伴’ (péi bàn) combines two characters: 陪 (péi), meaning ‘to accompany’ or ‘to keep company with,’ and 伴 (bàn), meaning ‘companion’ or ‘to accompany.’ Together, they express the warm, supportive act of being physically or emotionally present with someone—especially during times of need, joy, or transition. It emphasizes continuity, care, and relational closeness, not just momentary presence.

This word is commonly used in emotional, familial, or caregiving contexts—such as supporting a sick family member, staying with a child while they study, or offering comfort to a friend after loss. As a noun, it refers to the state or experience of companionship; as a verb, it describes the action of accompanying. Unlike more neutral terms like ‘和…在一起’ (hé…zài yīqǐ), 陪伴 carries connotations of intentionality, empathy, and enduring support.