cung4 cin4從前从前
Jyutpingcung4 cin4
Yalechùhng chìhn
Definition
Once upon a time, or in the past.
- a long time ago; in the past
- once upon a time; used to begin a fairy tale
neutraltime
How it's used
While often used to begin fairy tales like "Once upon a time," it also functions as a standard way to refer to any time before the present. It carries a slightly nostalgic or reflective tone when discussing personal history. In casual speech, people frequently use 以前 instead, as 從前 can sound a bit more literary or formal depending on the context.
Examples
In the past, this place was a wasteland.
Did you live in this district in the past?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse this with 以前. While they are interchangeable in many contexts, 從前 is more commonly associated with storytelling or distant memories, whereas 以前 is the default, neutral term for any time prior to now.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
