来历

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Character Breakdown

Understanding 来历

The word 来历 refers to a person's or an object's background, origin, or history. It is often used to inquire about someone's past experiences, origins, or the provenance of an item. Unlike the general word for 'history' (历史), 来历 emphasizes the source or background, especially in contexts like personal background checks or the origin of antiques.

Common Collocations

  • 来历: unknown background, often used to describe mysterious or suspicious origins.
  • 来历清楚: clear background, indicating transparency or trustworthiness.
  • 来历: trace back the origin, used for objects or histories.

Usage Notes

When asking about someone's 来历, it often implies a desire to understand their qualifications, trustworthiness, or social background. In formal or investigative contexts, it can carry a slightly serious or cautious tone. Avoid confusing 来历 with 历史, which is more about historical events rather than personal or object origins.

Summary

来历 is a useful term for discussing origins and backgrounds in both personal and material contexts. It helps speakers focus on the source or provenance rather than just the chronological history.

Example Sentences

His background is very mysterious; no one knows where he worked before.

Please tell me your background; it is very important for our cooperation.

The origin of this antique can be traced back to the Qing Dynasty.