Meaning
近来 is a time adverb meaning 'recently' or 'lately', referring to the recent past up to the present moment. It's formed from 近 (near) and 来 (come), literally meaning 'coming near' in time. This word is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to introduce recent events, changes, or situations.
Usage
近来 is slightly more formal than 最近 (zuìjìn), though both mean 'recently'. It's often used at the beginning of sentences to set a time frame for what follows. Common in written correspondence, news reports, and polite conversation. Native speakers use it when discussing recent developments, changes in health, weather, or general situations.
Examples
- 01近来天气变化很大，要注意保暖。, .The weather has changed a lot recently, so be sure to keep warm.
- 02你近来工作怎么样？?How has your work been lately?
Characters
Common collocations
- 近来如何how have you been lately
- 近来身体recent health/physical condition
- 近来天气recent weather
Antonyms
Origin
Compound of 近 (near) and 来 (come), creating a temporal sense of 'coming near' or 'approaching in time', hence 'recently'.