当时

No base JSON record found for this token.

Character Breakdown

Usage of 当时

当时 is a time adverb meaning "at that time" or "then." It is used to refer to a specific moment or period in the past, often to set the context for a story or explanation. It usually appears at the beginning or middle of a sentence to indicate when something happened.

Common Collocations

Nuances

Using 当时 implies a clear reference to a past moment that is relevant to the current conversation. It often contrasts with the present or other times. It is more formal and precise than just saying "" or "时候," which are more casual.

Common Confusion

Don't confuse 当时 with 现在 (now) or 以后 (afterwards). 当时 strictly refers to a past moment. Also, avoid mixing it with , which means "that day" but focuses on the date rather than the moment.

Summary

当时 is essential for narrating past events with a clear temporal anchor. It helps speakers specify when something occurred, making stories and explanations clearer and more vivid.

Example Sentences

I was at work then and couldn't answer the phone.

The situation was complicated at that time; we needed to handle it calmly.

Why didn't you tell me the truth back then?