noun (time word) HSK 3
Traditional 那時
at that time · back then · in those days
Meaning
那时 is a time expression referring to a specific moment or period in the past. It's composed of 那 (that) and 时 (time), literally meaning 'that time.' It's commonly used when reminiscing or narrating past events to establish temporal context.
Usage
Native speakers use 那时 to mark a clear reference point in the past, often when telling stories or comparing past and present. It can refer to a specific moment or an extended period. Commonly appears at the beginning of sentences or clauses. Similar to 那时候 but slightly more concise and literary.
Examples
- 01那时我还是个学生，每天都很忙。, .Back then I was still a student and was busy every day.
- 02那时的生活比现在简单多了。.Life at that time was much simpler than now.
Characters
Common collocations
- 那时的我me at that time, the me back then
- 就在那时just at that time, right then
Antonyms
Origin
Compound of the demonstrative pronoun 那 (that) and the noun 时 (time/period). The traditional form uses 時, which originally depicted the sun (日) and a foot/step (寸), suggesting time's passage.