从前

Pattern visualization

Examples

1. 从前,这里有一座古老的寺庙。▶ —
   In the past, there was an old temple here.
2. 他现在比从前更成熟了。▶ —
   He is more mature now than before.

Collocations

Mnemonic

从 cóng "from" + 前 qián "before": the time before now, i.e. "the past, former times". A time noun. Old tales often open with 从前有 ("once upon a time there was"). Opposite of 现在 (now).

Related

Quick check

1. What does the story-opening 从前有 mean?

   • once upon a time there was
   • now there is
   • there will be
   • in front of