曾经

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Character Breakdown

Usage of 曾经

The adverb 曾经 (céngjīng) is used to indicate that something happened at some point in the past but no longer occurs or is no longer true. It often emphasizes a contrast between past and present states.

Common Collocations

Nuances

Using 曾经 implies a sense of nostalgia or reflection on past experiences. It is often used in storytelling or personal narratives. It is more formal and literary than just using or alone.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 曾经 with 以前 (yǐqián), which simply means "before" or "previously" without the strong implication that the situation has changed. 曾经 stresses that the past state is no longer the case.

Example Sentences

I once went to that city.

He was once the manager of the company.

This street was once very lively, now it has become quiet.