adjective HSK 3
long (time) · for a long time · of long duration
Meaning
久 describes a long duration of time, emphasizing that something has lasted or will last for an extended period. It commonly appears in phrases describing time spans, waiting periods, or the length of relationships and states.
Usage
久 typically follows verbs to indicate duration (e.g., 等了很久 'waited a long time') or appears in set phrases. It's often used with 很 to mean 'very long' or with 多 to ask 'how long.' Common in both spoken and written language.
Examples
- 01好久不见，你最近怎么样？, ?Long time no see, how have you been lately?
- 02我等了很久，他还没来。, .I waited for a long time, but he still hasn't come.
Common collocations
- 好久不见long time no see
- 很久以前a long time ago
- 多久how long
- 久等了sorry to keep you waiting
Antonyms
Origin
The character 久 originally depicted a person with something behind them, suggesting extension or prolongation in time.