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How to say “ever since” in Chinese with 自从 (zìcóng)

自从 (zìcóng) + Event, Subj. + 就 (jiù) / 一直 (yìzhí) + Verb

Expressing "ever since" with "自从 (zìcóng)"

HSK 5Prepositions

Rule structure

自从 (zìcóng) is similar to 以来 (yǐlái) but emphasizes the starting point of a change. Often paired with 就 (jiù) to indicate a new state.

Examples

自从有了孩子，她就没工作过。

Zìcóng yǒu le háizi, tā jiù méi gōngzuò guo.

Ever since she had a child, she hasn’t worked.

Practice

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Frequently asked questions

How do you express “Expressing "ever since" with "自从 (zìcóng)"” in Chinese?

Use the structure: 自从 (zìcóng) + Event, Subj. + 就 (jiù) / 一直 (yìzhí) + Verb. For example: 自从有了孩子，她就没工作过。 — “Ever since she had a child, she hasn’t worked.”.

What is an example sentence with this grammar rule?

自从有了孩子，她就没工作过。 — “Ever since she had a child, she hasn’t worked.”.

Which HSK level includes this grammar rule?

This grammar rule is part of HSK 5.

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