陪同 (tóng péi) is a formal verb meaning 'to accompany', especially in official, professional, or ceremonial contexts. Unlike the more general 陪 (péi), which can be used casually (e.g., accompanying a friend to lunch), 陪同 carries connotations of duty, responsibility, or protocol — often implying that the accompanier has a role such as guide, assistant, interpreter, or host. The character 陪 means 'to accompany' or 'to keep company', while 同 means 'together' or 'with'; combined, they emphasize joint presence with purpose and formality.

This word frequently appears in diplomatic, business, tourism, or administrative settings — for example, when government staff accompany foreign delegates on visits, or when hospital staff accompany patients for official procedures. It is rarely used in intimate or informal relationships (e.g., you wouldn’t say 我今天陪同我妈妈去超市); instead, 陪 is preferred there. 陪同 is also commonly found in written reports, news articles, and official announcements, reflecting its elevated register.