adverb HSK 4
Traditional 曾經
once · formerly · ever · at one time
Meaning
曾经 indicates that something happened or was true in the past, but is no longer the case in the present. It emphasizes a past experience or state that has since changed or ended. The word carries a slightly reflective or nostalgic tone.
Usage
曾经 typically appears before the verb in a sentence. It often pairs with 过 (guo) to reinforce the past experience meaning. Native speakers use it when reminiscing about the past or when contrasting a former state with the present. It's common in both spoken and written Chinese.
Examples
- 01我曾经在北京住过三年。.I once lived in Beijing for three years.
- 02他曾经是一名医生，但现在退休了。, .He was once a doctor, but now he's retired.
Characters
Common collocations
- 曾经...过...to have once...
- 曾经是used to be
- 我曾经以为I once thought
Antonyms
Origin
曾 originally meant 'already' or 'once before,' while 经 means 'to go through' or 'to experience.' Together they form a compound emphasizing past experience or previous states.