The Chinese word 當時 (dāngshí) holds significant importance in the language, often used to denote a specific time in the past. In this article, we will dive deep into the meaning of 當時, its grammatical structure, and how to use it effectively in sentences. Whether you’re a language learner or just curious about Chinese, this guide will enhance your understanding of Chinese temporal expressions.
What Does 當時 (dāngshí) Mean?
當時 (dāngshí) translates to “at that time” in English. It refers to a particular moment or period in the past, often used to recount events or situations that occurred during that timeframe. The usage of this term is prevalent in spoken and written Chinese, making it a fundamental component for anyone wishing to communicate about past events.
The Nuances of 當時
The term can imply a sense of nostalgia or reflection, as it often connects the speaker to memories of specific past experiences. Additionally, 當時 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for various conversational settings.
The Grammatical Structure of 當時 (dāngshí)
Understanding the grammatical structure of 當時 is essential for using it correctly within sentences. It consists of two characters: 當 (dāng) and 時 (shí).
Breaking Down the Characters
- 當 (dāng): This character signifies “to be” or “at the time.” It serves as a verb to indicate a state of being during a specific time.
- 時 (shí): This character translates to “time” or “moment.” It denotes the concept of time itself.
Together, 當時 creates a phrase that refers to a specific point in the past, emphasizing the temporal quality of the events being discussed.
Example Sentences Using 當時 (dāngshí)
To fully grasp the usage of 當時, it is beneficial to see it in context. Here are several example sentences illustrating different scenarios:
Example 1
我當時在北京工作。
(Wǒ dāngshí zài Běijīng gōngzuò.)
“I was working in Beijing at that time.”
Example 2
當時的情況很複雜。
(Dāngshí de qíngkuàng hěn fùzá.)
“The situation was very complicated at that time.”
Example 3
我沒有想到當時會發生這樣的事。
(Wǒ méiyǒu xiǎngdào dāngshí huì fāshēng zhèyàng de shì.)
“I didn’t expect that such a thing would happen at that time.”
Common Mistakes When Using 當時
Even advanced learners can stumble when using 當時. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Using Present Tense: Remember that 當時 strictly refers to past events. Therefore, it should not be used with present tense verbs.
- Misplacing it in Sentences: Typically, 當時 should be placed early in the sentence to clarify the timeline of the events.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the meaning and structure of 當時 (dāngshí) is vital for expressing past experiences in Chinese. By mastering its usage, you can enhance your storytelling, making your conversations more engaging and understandable. Whether you’re recounting a memory or discussing historical events, 當時 serves as a key expression in your linguistic toolkit.
With practice and application in everyday conversations, the use of 當時 (dāngshí) will become second nature, helping you to convey depth and clarity in your communication.

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