本来
When you use 本来 (běn lái), you are talking about how things were at the beginning, or how they were supposed to be.
It's like saying "originally" or "at first."
For example, if you 本来 planned to go to the park, but then it rained, you can use it to explain your original plan.
It helps to show a contrast between an initial situation and what actually happened or is happening now.
You'll often hear the word 本来 (běnlái) in everyday Chinese conversations. It's an adverb that means "originally" or "at first."
Think of it as setting the stage for how things were before something changed. It implies that the current situation is different from how it started.
It's super useful when you want to explain a change in plans or a difference between an initial idea and the reality.
When you use 本来 (běnlái), you're talking about how things were at the beginning, or how they were supposed to be. Think of it like saying 'originally' or 'at first' in English. It sets up a contrast with how things are now. For example, if you say '我本来要去看电影' (wǒ běnlái yào qù kàn diànyǐng), it means 'I originally was going to watch a movie,' implying something changed and you didn't go. So, 本来 is useful for explaining a change from an initial plan or state.
“本来” (běnlái) is an adverb that indicates something was originally or at first a certain way. It often implies a contrast with a present situation.
For example, if you say “我本来想去，但是太累了” (Wǒ běnlái xiǎng qù, dànshì tài lèile), it means “Originally I wanted to go, but I’m too tired.” This shows a change from the initial intention.
Another common use is to explain what something or someone is like by nature or by default, before any changes. For instance, “这件事情本来很简单” (Zhè jiàn shìqing běnlái hěn jiǎndān) means “This matter was originally very simple,” suggesting it might not be simple now.
“本来” (běnlái) is an adverb that indicates something was originally or at first a certain way. It often implies a contrast with a present situation or a different outcome. You can use it to describe an initial plan, a former state, or what was supposed to happen.
For example, if you say “我本来要去上海，但是现在改变主意了” (Wǒ běnlái yào qù Shànghǎi, dànshì xiànzài gǎibiàn zhǔyì le), it means “I was originally going to Shanghai, but now I’ve changed my mind.” Here, “本来” sets up the expectation of going to Shanghai, which is then contrasted with the change of plans.
It can also express that something is inherently or naturally a certain way. For instance, “这本来就是我的工作” (Zhè běnlái jiù shì wǒ de gōngzuò) means “This is my job to begin with” or “This is originally my job,” implying it’s a fundamental part of the responsibility.
Therefore, when you encounter “本来,” pay attention to the context to understand if it’s referring to an initial state that has changed, or to something that is inherently true.
When using “本来” (běnlái), it often implies a contrast between an initial situation and a current one. It can express that something was supposed to be a certain way, or that something was true at the beginning but has changed. This word is very versatile and frequently used to explain a shift in plans or circumstances.
§ Understanding the Core Meaning
Alright, let's break down 本来 (běnlái). It's an adverb that essentially means 'originally' or 'at first'. Think about how things were supposed to be, or how they were in the beginning, before something changed. It often implies a contrast between the past and the present, or between expectation and reality.
- Definition
- Originally; at first.
§ At Work: Explaining Changes
In a work setting, 本来 is super useful when you need to explain why something is different from the original plan or expectation. Maybe a deadline changed, or a task was reassigned. It helps you clarify the situation efficiently.
这个项目本来应该上周完成，但是我们遇到了一个问题。
Translation hint: This project originally should have been completed last week, but we encountered a problem.
我本来想今天交报告，但是还需要一些时间。
Translation hint: I originally wanted to submit the report today, but I still need some more time.
§ At School: Discussing Plans and Intentions
In a school context, you'll hear 本来 when talking about study plans, course choices, or even social arrangements. It helps to communicate what you initially intended to do versus what actually happened.
我本来打算学法语，后来改学了中文。
Translation hint: I originally planned to learn French, but later switched to Chinese.
这本书我本来要还的，结果忘了。
Translation hint: I originally needed to return this book, but I forgot.
§ In the News: Setting the Scene
News reports use 本来 to give background information, explaining the initial conditions or expectations before an event occurred. It helps listeners or readers understand the context of a situation.
这次会议本来定在下个月，但因故提前了。
Translation hint: This meeting was originally scheduled for next month, but was moved up due to a reason.
公司本来计划扩大生产，但市场变化导致计划搁置。
Translation hint: The company originally planned to expand production, but market changes led to the plan being shelved.
- When you hear 本来, listen for the contrasting information that follows.
- It helps to understand the 'before' picture of a situation.
- It's a common way to explain deviations from plans or expectations.
§ Understanding “本来”
You've learned that 本来 (běnlái) means 'originally' or 'at first'. It describes a situation or state of things that was true in the beginning, before something changed or before you realized something different. Think of it as the 'initial' state.
- DEFINITION
- Originally; at first.
我本来想去北京，但是现在改变主意了。
他本来是个医生，后来才开始教书。
§ The Common Confusion: 本来 vs. 原来
Many students mix up 本来 (běnlái) and 原来 (yuánlái). While both can mean 'originally,' their nuances are different. Here’s how to tell them apart.
§ 原来 (yuánlái)
原来 also means 'originally' but often implies a realization or a discovery of a truth that was previously unknown or misunderstood. It's like saying 'it turns out that...' or 'as a matter of fact...'. It brings a sense of 'oh, I see now!'
- DEFINITION
- Originally; formerly; as a matter of fact; so that's how it is.
我以为他很忙，原来他在度假。
你原来住在这里啊！怪不得你这么熟悉。
§ Key Differences Summarized
本来 (běnlái): Focuses on the *initial state* of affairs, often contrasted with a present or changed state. It's about what was true at the beginning.
原来 (yuánlái): Focuses on *realization or discovery*. It's used when you suddenly understand something or when something turns out to be different from what you thought.
§ Practice Examples for Clarity
Let's look at more examples to nail down the differences.
Using 本来 (běnlái):
这份工作本来不难，是我自己没做好。
我们本来是朋友，后来因为一些事吵架了。
Using 原来 (yuánlái):
我找了半天，原来钥匙就在我口袋里！
他看起来很年轻，没想到原来已经三十多岁了。
§ When to use 本来 (běnlái)
Use 本来 when you want to:
State the original intention, plan, or situation that has since changed.
Emphasize a contrast between a past state and a current one.
Express something that was true from the very beginning.
Remember, it's about what *was* true, often in comparison to what *is* true now. Keep practicing these subtle differences, and you'll master them in no time!
Le savais-tu ?
The character '本' (běn) originally depicted a tree with its roots emphasized by an extra stroke.
Guide de prononciation
- Don't confuse the 'b' with 'p'. It's a soft 'b' sound.
- Ensure the 'ai' sound is like in 'eye'.
Niveau de difficulté
Common characters, simple structure.
Common characters, simple structure.
Pronunciation is straightforward.
Clear pronunciation, easy to distinguish.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Use 本来 before a verb or verb phrase to indicate a situation or state that existed at the beginning or in the past, which is now different.
我本来要去上海，但是现在改变主意了。 (Wǒ běnlái yào qù Shànghǎi, dànshì xiànzài gǎibiàn zhǔyì le.) I originally was going to Shanghai, but now I've changed my mind.
It can be used to express that something is supposed to be a certain way, or how it 'should have been'.
这本来就是你的责任。 (Zhè běnlái jiù shì nǐ de zérèn.) This is originally/always your responsibility.
When 本来 is followed by 是 (shì), it emphasizes the original nature or truth of something.
她本来是个很开朗的人。 (Tā běnlái shì gè hěn kāilǎng de rén.) She was originally a very cheerful person.
It can be used to provide background information about a situation before explaining a change or deviation.
我们本来有十个人，但有两个人临时有事不能来了。 (Wǒmen běnlái yǒu shí ge rén, dàn yǒu liǎng ge rén línshí yǒu shì bù néng lái le.) We originally had ten people, but two people unexpectedly couldn't come.
本來 can sometimes be used in a rhetorical question to express surprise or disagreement about a change in a situation.
你不是本来很喜欢吃辣吗？ (Nǐ bù shì běnlái hěn xǐhuan chī là ma?) Didn't you originally like spicy food a lot?
Exemples par niveau
我本来要去，可是下雨了。
I originally was going to go, but it rained.
这本书我本来就有了。
I already had this book originally.
他本来是想学医的。
He originally wanted to study medicine.
我们本来不认识。
We didn't know each other originally.
这个地方本来很安静。
This place was originally very quiet.
我本来不吃辣的。
I originally didn't eat spicy food.
你本来应该告诉我的。
You originally should have told me.
这个主意本来就很好。
This idea was good from the start.
我本来打算今天去看电影，但是突然下雨了。
I originally planned to go to the cinema today, but it suddenly rained.
他本来是想拒绝的，后来被说服了。
He originally wanted to refuse, but was later persuaded.
这件事情本来很简单，却被他们搞复杂了。
This matter was originally very simple, but they complicated it.
你本来就不应该相信他说的话。
You shouldn't have believed what he said in the first place.
我本来以为你会喜欢这个礼物。
I originally thought you would like this gift.
公司本来计划扩大规模，但由于经济不景气而搁置了。
The company originally planned to expand, but it was put on hold due to the economic downturn.
他本来对这个项目不感兴趣，后来却投入了大量精力。
He originally wasn't interested in this project, but later invested a lot of energy.
我们本来可以避免这场争吵的，如果都冷静一点的话。
We could have avoided this argument if we had both been a little calmer.
Souvent confondu avec
原来 can also mean 'originally' or 'at first', but it often implies a discovery or realization of a previous truth, or an unexpected outcome. It's more about 'as it turns out' or 'so that's how it was.'
起初 strictly means 'at the beginning' or 'at first' in a chronological sense. It simply marks the start of an event or period, without the added nuance of a change from that original state or an inherent truth that 本来 carries.
This is a common fixed phrase. The addition of 就 (jiù) strengthens the meaning of 'inherently', 'it was always like this', or 'it goes without saying'. It emphasizes that something is naturally or obviously true, often with a slight tone of impatience or matter-of-factness.
Facile à confondre
Many learners confuse 本来 with other adverbs that express 'originally' or 'at first' like '原来' (yuán lái) or '起初' (qǐ chū). The key difference is in its nuance and common usage.
本来 often implies a situation or plan that existed previously but has since changed or been corrected. It can suggest an expectation that wasn't met, or a state that was true at some point but isn't now. It can also refer to something that is 'inherently' or 'fundamentally' true.
我本来要去，可是下雨了。(Wǒ běnlái yào qù, kěshì xià yǔ le.) - I was originally going to go, but it rained.
Learners might use it interchangeably with 'at first' when the context implies a beginning of an action or event without the sense of a changed situation.
While 'at first' can sometimes fit, 本来 strongly suggests a contrast with the current situation or a deviation from a prior plan/state. It's not just about the starting point.
他本来会说中文，但他很久没用了。(Tā běnlái huì shuō Zhōngwén, dàn tā hěn jiǔ méi yòng le.) - He originally could speak Chinese, but he hasn't used it for a long time.
The 'inherently' or 'fundamentally' meaning can be tricky, as it’s less about a timeline and more about the nature of something.
In this usage, 本来 doesn't imply a past event but rather an intrinsic quality or a natural state of affairs. It's often used to state something obvious or generally accepted.
这件事本来就应该这样做。(Zhè jiàn shì běnlái jiù yīnggāi zhèyàng zuò.) - This matter should inherently be done this way.
It can be confused with 'actually' or 'in fact' when used to correct a misunderstanding or state a truth.
While sometimes aligning with 'actually', 本来 focuses on the 'original' or 'inherent' truth, often contrasting it with a mistaken belief. 'Actually' (actually, 事实上 - shì shí shàng) is broader.
我本来以为他会来，但他没来。(Wǒ běnlái yǐwéi tā huì lái, dàn tā méi lái.) - I originally thought he would come, but he didn't.
The adverbial nature means its placement can affect the nuance, and learners might place it incorrectly.
Typically, 本来 goes before the verb or adjective it modifies. Its position reinforces the 'original state' or 'inherent truth' aspect of the sentence.
这本来就是我的书。(Zhè běnlái jiù shì wǒ de shū.) - This was originally my book (or, this is inherently my book).
Famille de mots
Noms
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Think of **本 (běn)** as 'root' or 'origin', and **来 (lái)** as 'come'. So, 'come from the origin' helps you remember 'originally'.
Association visuelle
Imagine a tree. The **根 (gēn)** or 'root' of the tree is its **本 (běn)**, where it **来 (lái)**, or 'comes from'. This visual of the tree's origin helps cement 'originally' in your mind.
Word Web
Défi
Try to say three sentences about things you 'originally' planned to do today but didn't, using 本来. For example: '我本来想在家学习，但是朋友叫我出去了。'
Origine du mot
Comes from the characters '本' (běn) and '来' (lái).
Sens originel : '本' means 'root' or 'origin', and '来' means 'to come'. So, literally 'origin comes' or 'from the origin'.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic.Contexte culturel
When someone says '本来', they often imply that the current situation is different from how things were initially or how they were supposed to be. It can be used to set up a contrast, like 'Originally I planned to go, but then something came up.'
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsBoth 本来 (běn lái) and 原来 (yuán lái) can mean 'originally,' but they're used in slightly different situations. 本来 often implies that a situation has changed from its initial state. For example, '我本来要去图书馆，但是下雨了' (Wǒ běn lái yào qù tú shū guǎn, dàn shì xià yǔ le) means 'Originally I was going to the library, but then it rained.' 原来 often expresses a realization or discovery about a past situation. For instance, '原来你在这里!' (Yuán lái nǐ zài zhè lǐ!) means 'So you were here all along!'
No, 本来 is primarily an adverb. It describes how something was initially or should have been. While you might see it in phrases that *feel* like they're describing something, its grammatical function is still adverbial. For example, '这件事情本来很简单' (Zhè jiàn shì qíng běn lái hěn jiǎn dān) – 'This matter was originally very simple.' Here, 简单 (jiǎn dān - simple) is the adjective, and 本来 modifies the verb 'is' (implied).
Not always, but it very often does imply a contrast or a change from an initial plan or state. It sets up an expectation that might not have been met, or that something has deviated from its original course. For example, '我们本来有五个人，现在只有三个人' (Wǒ men běn lái yǒu wǔ gè rén, xiàn zài zhī yǒu sān gè rén) – 'Originally we had five people, now there are only three.'
You can use 本来 should be + verb phrase. For example, '你本来应该告诉我' (Nǐ běn lái yīng gāi gào sù wǒ) means 'You should have told me (originally/at first).' The '应该' (yīng gāi) here adds the 'should' aspect, and 本来 emphasizes the initial expectation or plan.
A common mistake is trying to translate it too literally as 'originally' in every context, especially when it carries the nuance of 'it was supposed to be' or 'it should have been.' Remember that it often implies a divergence from an initial state. Thinking about it as 'at first' or 'initially' helps capture this nuance.
Not in the sense of its historical or physical origin. For the origin or source of something, you would use other words like '起源' (qǐ yuán - origin) or '来自' (lái zì - come from). 本来 refers more to the *initial state* or *original intention* of something, not its birthplace or beginning point.
It can be, but it's also very common in the middle of a sentence, before the verb. Its position depends on what you want to emphasize. If you put it at the very beginning, it usually sets the scene for the whole sentence. If it's before the verb, it specifically modifies that action or state. For example: '本来我想去，但是没时间' (Běn lái wǒ xiǎng qù, dàn shì méi shí jiān) – 'Originally I wanted to go, but I don't have time.' Or, '我本来想去，但是没时间' (Wǒ běn lái xiǎng qù, dàn shì méi shí jiān) – 'I originally wanted to go, but I don't have time.'
No, not always negative, but it does often imply that something didn't go according to the initial plan or expectation. The outcome isn't necessarily bad, just different. For example, '他本来很瘦，现在胖了' (Tā běn lái hěn shòu, xiàn zài pàng le) – 'He was originally very thin, now he's fat.' This is a neutral observation of change.
Here's a straightforward one: '我本来不懂，现在懂了。' (Wǒ běn lái bù dǒng, xiàn zài dǒng le.) This means 'Originally I didn't understand, now I understand.'
Yes, it can. When used in a question, it often seeks clarification about an initial state or plan. For example, '你本来想做什么?' (Nǐ běn lái xiǎng zuò shén me?) means 'What did you originally want to do?' or 'What were you going to do?'
Teste-toi 108 questions
I was originally going to the store.
He is originally Chinese.
We originally didn't know.
Read this aloud:
我本来不喜欢吃苹果。
Focus: 本
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
你本来住在哪儿？
Focus: 哪儿
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
他们本来是朋友。
Focus: 朋友
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
The correct order is '我 (I) 本来 (originally) 是 (am/was) 老师 (teacher)'.
The correct order is '他 (He) 本来 (originally) 想 (wanted to) 回家 (go home)'.
The correct order is '我们 (We) 本来 (originally) 想 (wanted to) 看 (watch) 电影 (movie)'.
她___想去北京，但是现在改变主意了。(She ___ wanted to go to Beijing, but now she has changed her mind.)
本来 (běnlái) means 'originally' or 'at first', indicating a past intention that has since changed.
这个计划___很简单，后来变得很复杂。(This plan ___ was very simple, but later it became very complicated.)
本来 (běnlái) fits here to show the initial state of the plan before it changed.
你___就应该告诉我，不是现在。(You ___ should have told me, not now.)
本来 (běnlái) implies that the action should have occurred earlier, contrasting with the current timing.
他___住在上海，后来搬到了广州。(He ___ lived in Shanghai, then moved to Guangzhou.)
本来 (běnlái) indicates his original residence before he moved.
我们___打算今天去看电影，但是下雨了。(We ___ planned to go to the movies today, but it rained.)
本来 (běnlái) is used here to express an original plan that was disrupted.
这件事___不是我的错。(This matter ___ was not my fault.)
本来 (běnlái) can be used to assert that something was true from the beginning or inherently, often to clarify a misunderstanding.
她___想去北京，但是后来改变主意了。
“本来”在这里表示最初的想法或计划。 (Originally, at first.)
这个地方___很安静，现在变得很热闹。
“本来”描述了事物最初的状态。 (Originally, at first.)
我们___打算今天去看电影，但是下雨了。
“本来”表达了最初的意图或计划。 (Originally, at first.)
这句话的意思是：他最初是美国人，后来变成了中国人。 他本来是美国人。
“本来”表示某人最初的国籍。 (Originally, at first.)
这句话的意思是：这份工作一直很难。 这份工作本来很难。
“本来”强调的是工作在最初的时候是难的，而不是一直很难。 (Originally, at first.)
这句话的意思是：他最初并不喜欢吃辣的。 他本来不喜欢吃辣的。
“本来”表示他最初的口味偏好。 (Originally, at first.)
I originally was going to go to the store, but it rained. Pay attention to how '本来' sounds in the sentence.
He was originally Chinese, then went to America. Listen for the placement of '本来'.
We originally didn't know this place; our friend told us. Can you distinguish '本来'?
Read this aloud:
我本来想回家，但是现在不想了。
Focus: bén lái
Tu as dit :
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Read this aloud:
这件事情本来很简单。
Focus: bén lái hěn jiǎn dān
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
你本来是做什么工作的？
Focus: nǐ bén lái shì zuò shén me gōng zuò de
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a sentence using 本来 to describe something that was different from what you expected. For example, 'I originally thought it would be sunny, but it rained.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我本来以为今天会很忙，但是现在很清闲。(I originally thought today would be busy, but now it's very relaxed.)
Use 本来 to talk about a plan that changed. For example, 'We originally planned to eat out, but we decided to cook at home instead.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我们本来打算去看电影，但是后来取消了。(We originally planned to go to the movies, but later canceled.)
Describe something that was originally yours but now belongs to someone else, using 本来. For example, 'This book was originally mine, but I gave it to my friend.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这支笔本来是我的，但是现在给我的弟弟用了。(This pen was originally mine, but now my younger brother is using it.)
他现在的工作是什么？
Read this passage:
他本来是想学医的，但是后来对编程产生了兴趣。现在他是一名程序员。
他现在的工作是什么？
文章中提到“现在他是一名程序员”，所以他现在的工作是程序员。
文章中提到“现在他是一名程序员”，所以他现在的工作是程序员。
为什么我这个周末没有去公园？
Read this passage:
这个周末我本来计划去公园，但是天气预报说会下雨，所以我就在家看书了。
为什么我这个周末没有去公园？
文章中提到“但是天气预报说会下雨”，所以因为天气原因没有去公园。
文章中提到“但是天气预报说会下雨”，所以因为天气原因没有去公园。
这家餐厅的菜现在味道怎么样？
Read this passage:
这家餐厅的菜本来很好吃，但是最近换了厨师，味道就不如以前了。
这家餐厅的菜现在味道怎么样？
文章中提到“味道就不如以前了”，所以现在不如以前好吃。
文章中提到“味道就不如以前了”，所以现在不如以前好吃。
她___想去北京，但是后来改变主意了。(She ___ wanted to go to Beijing, but later changed her mind.)
The sentence implies a change from an initial intention, which '本来' (originally; at first) expresses perfectly. '一直' means always, '已经' means already, and '常常' means often.
这个计划___很简单，但实施起来却很复杂。(This plan was ___ very simple, but it turned out to be very complicated to implement.)
'本来' indicates the initial state of the plan before it became complicated. '忽然' means suddenly, '果然' means as expected, and '竟然' means unexpectedly.
我___不饿，但看到美食就想吃了。(I ___ wasn't hungry, but when I saw the delicious food, I wanted to eat.)
'本来' conveys that the initial state was not being hungry, which then changed. '才' means only/just, '只' means only, and '又' means again.
你___应该今天完成作业的，为什么还没做完？(You ___ should have finished your homework today, why haven't you finished it yet?)
'本来' here indicates what was supposed to be the case, implying a deviation from the original plan or expectation. '终于' means finally, '总是' means always, and '特地' means specially.
他___住在上海，后来搬到了北京。(He ___ lived in Shanghai, and later moved to Beijing.)
'本来' describes his initial place of residence before he moved. '曾经' means once, '然后' means then, and '常常' means often.
这本书___是我的，但我借给朋友了。(This book ___ was mine, but I lent it to a friend.)
'本来' indicates the original ownership of the book before it was lent out. '一直' means always, '已经' means already, and '当然' means of course.
Choose the sentence where 本来 is used correctly:
本来 refers to a situation or plan that existed previously but has since changed. Option A correctly uses it to describe a change in plans. Options B and C use it in ways that don't reflect a past state that has changed. Option D is grammatically incorrect.
Which of the following best describes the meaning of 本来 in this sentence: “我们本来是朋友，现在却成了陌生人。”
The sentence means 'We were originally friends, but now we've become strangers.' 本来 refers to the initial state of being friends.
Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word: “这个计划_____很简单，但是后来变得很复杂。”
The sentence describes a plan that started simple but became complex, indicating an original state that changed. 本来 (originally) fits this context perfectly.
The sentence “他本来很忙，所以没有来参加会议。” (He was originally very busy, so he didn't come to the meeting.) is a correct use of 本来.
This sentence correctly uses 本来 to explain a past reason or state that led to an action (or lack thereof).
You can use 本来 to describe something that is inherently or naturally a certain way, without implying a change.
本来 usually implies a contrast between an original state or plan and a current one. For inherent qualities, words like 总是 (always) or 天生 (naturally) would be more appropriate.
“我本来不知道这件事。” (I originally didn't know about this matter.) means that the speaker now knows about it.
The use of 本来 here implies that while the speaker didn't know before, they do know now, highlighting a change in their knowledge.
他___计划今天完成这项工作，但突发情况打乱了他的安排。(He originally planned to finish the work today, but an emergency disrupted his arrangements.)
The sentence implies a contrast between an initial plan and a change, making '本来' (originally/at first) the most suitable choice.
我们___以为这条路是通的，结果走了半天才发现是死胡同。(We originally thought this road was open, but after walking for half an hour, we found it was a dead end.)
'本来' is used here to indicate a previous assumption or belief that turned out to be incorrect.
这部电影___是根据一部小说改编的，后来编剧做了很多改动。(This movie was originally adapted from a novel, but later the screenwriter made many changes.)
The sentence describes the initial origin of the movie before subsequent changes, which is precisely the function of '本来'.
他___不想参加聚会，但朋友们一直邀请，他只好去了。(He originally didn't want to attend the party, but his friends kept inviting him, so he had to go.)
This sentence illustrates a situation where someone's initial intention ('本来不想') is overridden by external factors.
这件事情___很简单，但是后来变得越来越复杂了。(This matter was originally very simple, but later it became more and more complicated.)
'本来' highlights the initial state of simplicity before the situation evolved into complexity.
你___就是个聪明人，学什么都很快。(You are inherently a clever person, you learn everything quickly.)
In this context, '本来' emphasizes an inherent quality or natural state, meaning 'originally' or 'by nature'.
她___想去北京，但后来改变主意了。
The sentence implies a change of plan, so '本来' (originally) fits best.
这件事情___很简单，但是被他搞复杂了。
The sentence indicates that something that was initially simple became complicated, so '本来' (originally) is the correct choice.
我们___约好一起吃饭，但他临时有事来不了。
'本来' (originally) expresses that there was an initial plan that didn't happen, which fits the context of the sentence.
这句话的意思是：他本来不打算来，但是最后还是来了。 (He originally didn't plan to come, but in the end he still came.)
The sentence uses '本来' to express an initial intention that was later changed.
当你表达一个与原计划不同的结果时，可以使用“本来”。
'本来' is indeed used to indicate a situation that was different from what was originally planned or expected.
“本来”和“现在”的意思相同，可以互换使用。
'本来' refers to an original state or plan, while '现在' refers to the current state. They are not interchangeable.
Describe a situation where your original plan changed. Use 本来.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我本来打算今天去健身房，但是突然下雨了，所以我改变了计划，决定在家看书。(I originally planned to go to the gym today, but it suddenly rained, so I changed my plan and decided to read at home.)
Write about a time you misunderstood something at first, then realized the truth. Use 本来.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我本来以为那部电影很无聊，但是看了以后发现它其实很有趣。(I originally thought that movie was boring, but after watching it, I found it was actually very interesting.)
Explain why something that was originally easy became difficult for you. Use 本来.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这个任务我本来觉得很容易，但后来才发现有很多细节需要注意，所以变得很困难。(I originally thought this task was easy, but later I found there were many details to pay attention to, so it became very difficult.)
他为什么决定接受这份工作？
Read this passage:
他本来对这份工作不感兴趣，但后来接触了才知道其中有很多挑战和机会，所以他决定接受这个职位。他的朋友们都很惊讶他的决定，因为他们都认为他会选择一个更轻松的职业。
他为什么决定接受这份工作？
文章中提到“接触了才知道其中有很多挑战和机会，所以他决定接受这个职位”。
文章中提到“接触了才知道其中有很多挑战和机会，所以他决定接受这个职位”。
作者最终买了哪条裙子？
Read this passage:
我本来想买那件红色的裙子，但是试穿之后发现那件蓝色的更适合我。虽然价格贵了一点，但我还是决定买蓝色的。毕竟，穿得好看比省钱更重要。
作者最终买了哪条裙子？
文章中提到“试穿之后发现那件蓝色的更适合我”，并且“我还是决定买蓝色的”。
文章中提到“试穿之后发现那件蓝色的更适合我”，并且“我还是决定买蓝色的”。
这家餐厅最近生意变差的原因是什么？
Read this passage:
这家餐厅本来生意很好，每天都座无虚席。但是最近因为老板更换了厨师，菜品的质量下降，顾客也越来越少了。老板现在很着急，正在想办法挽回顾客。
这家餐厅最近生意变差的原因是什么？
文章中明确指出“最近因为老板更换了厨师，菜品的质量下降，顾客也越来越少了”。
文章中明确指出“最近因为老板更换了厨师，菜品的质量下降，顾客也越来越少了”。
This sentence describes a schedule change. The word '本来' (originally) indicates the initial plan. The structure is '本来是在...举行的' (was originally held at...).
Here, '本来' (originally) shows his initial intention not to go to the party, which later changed due to persuasion. The structure '本来不想...' (originally didn't want to...) is common.
This sentence uses '本来以为...' (originally thought...) to express a prior assumption that was later proven wrong. It's a useful phrase for talking about changes in perception.
她___打算去北京，但后来计划变了。
‘原来’在这里表示最初的打算，符合句意。‘始终’表示一直，‘经常’表示频繁，‘偶尔’表示不常。
这件事情___很简单，但现在变得很复杂。
‘本来’表示事情最初的状态，与“现在变得很复杂”形成对比，符合句意。‘突然’表示出乎意料，‘显然’表示明显，‘偶尔’表示不常。
他___不想参加会议，但老板坚持让他去。
‘最初’表示一开始的想法，符合句意。‘最终’表示最后，‘及时’表示正当其时，‘一直’表示持续不断。
我们___是朋友，后来因为一些误会才疏远了。
‘原本’表示最初的关系，与“后来疏远了”形成对比，符合句意。‘后来’表示在某个时间之后，‘现在’表示当前，‘将来’表示未来的时间。
这本书___是关于历史的，但作者在里面加入了小说元素。
‘本来’表示书籍的原始属性，与“加入了小说元素”形成对比，符合句意。‘一直’表示持续不断，‘偶尔’表示不常，‘经常’表示频繁。
我___以为你会来，结果你没出现。
‘起初’表示最初的预期，与“结果你没出现”形成对比，符合句意。‘最终’表示最后，‘马上’表示立刻，‘偶尔’表示不常。
He originally planned to travel, but had to cancel because he was busy with work.
This matter was originally very simple, but he complicated it.
I didn't know her originally, but later met her through a friend's introduction.
Read this aloud:
这件衣服本来是红色的，洗了几次就褪色了。
Focus: 褪色 (tuìsè)
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
你本来应该早点告诉我这个消息的。
Focus: 应该 (yīnggāi)
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他们本来是邻居，后来搬家了就很少见面了。
Focus: 邻居 (línjū)
Tu as dit :
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a time when your original plan changed unexpectedly. Use '本来' in your response.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我本来打算今天去健身房锻炼，但是突然下起了大雨，所以我决定在家看书。虽然计划改变了，但我还是很享受这个宁静的下午。
Imagine you are talking about your career path. How has your original intention for your career evolved over time? Use '本来' at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我本来大学毕业后想成为一名工程师，但工作几年后，我发现自己对教育更感兴趣。所以我辞职了，回学校读了教育学，现在是一名老师。虽然这与我最初的设想不同，但我非常喜欢现在的工作。
Write a short paragraph about something you initially misunderstood but later came to understand correctly. Include '本来' in your description.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我本来以为学习中文非常困难，因为它的语法和发音都与英语大相径庭。然而，当我真正开始学习并投入时间后，我发现中文其实很有趣，而且越学越有成就感。现在我不再认为它那么难以掌握了。
根据短文，小明本来打算做什么？
Read this passage:
小明本来打算周末去爬山，但他突然接到通知，公司需要他加班。他感到有些失望，因为他已经为此准备了很久。不过，他很快调整了心态，决定利用加班后的空闲时间做一些平时没空做的事情。
根据短文，小明本来打算做什么？
文章第一句明确指出“小明本来打算周末去爬山”。
文章第一句明确指出“小明本来打算周末去爬山”。
这家餐厅目前面临的主要问题是什么？
Read this passage:
这家餐厅本来以其独特的创意菜而闻名，吸引了众多食客。然而，最近由于厨师团队的变动，菜品的质量有所下降，导致顾客流失严重。管理层正在积极采取措施，希望能恢复餐厅昔日的辉煌。
这家餐厅目前面临的主要问题是什么？
文章提到“最近由于厨师团队的变动，菜品的质量有所下降”，这是导致顾客流失的主要原因。
文章提到“最近由于厨师团队的变动，菜品的质量有所下降”，这是导致顾客流失的主要原因。
作者对历史的看法发生了什么变化？
Read this passage:
我本来对历史不感兴趣，总觉得它枯燥乏味。但在一次偶然的机会下，我读了一本关于中国古代历史的小说，它以生动的故事和丰富的人物形象吸引了我。从那以后，我对历史产生了浓厚的兴趣，并开始主动阅读相关的书籍。
作者对历史的看法发生了什么变化？
文章开头说“我本来对历史不感兴趣”，后来因为读小说而“对历史产生了浓厚的兴趣”。
文章开头说“我本来对历史不感兴趣”，后来因为读小说而“对历史产生了浓厚的兴趣”。
The sentence describes how something initially seemed simple but later became complicated. '本来' introduces the initial thought.
This sentence structure shows a contrast between an original plan ('本来计划') and a change due to unforeseen circumstances.
The phrase '本来就是' emphasizes that the nature of the job from the start was challenging, making difficulties expected.
她___以为自己能轻松完成任务，没想到困难重重。
‘本来’在这里表示‘at first’或‘originally’，符合语境。
这部电影___计划在暑假上映，但由于制作原因推迟了。
‘本来’表示最初的计划或意图，与句意相符。
这件事情___很简单，只是后来变得复杂了。
‘本来’强调事情最初的状态，与“后来变得复杂”形成对比。
“他本来要来，但是突然有事”表示他最终没有来。
“本来要来”表示最初的意图，但“但是突然有事”说明发生了变化，所以最终没有来。
“这件衣服本来就小”可以理解为这件衣服从一开始就尺寸偏小。
“本来就小”强调的是衣服从最初就是小的，没有变过。
“我们本来是朋友”暗示现在他们之间不是朋友关系了。
“本来是”通常用于引出与过去状态不同的现在情况，所以暗示关系已经改变。
This sentence uses '本来' to express an original plan that was changed. The structure is Subject + 本来 + 应该 + Verb + 的，但是 + reason for change.
'本来' indicates the initial ownership, followed by '后来' to show a change. The structure is Noun + 本来 + 是 + Possessive + 的，后来 + action.
Here, '本来就' emphasizes that something was known or true from the beginning. The structure is Subject + 本来就 + Verb + Object, 为什么 + negative action?
/ 108 correct
Perfect score!
Exemple
我本来打算今天去看电影。
Contenu associé
Ce mot dans d'autres langues
Expressions liées
Plus de mots sur general
一下儿
A1a bit, a moment
点儿
A1a little bit
有点儿
A1a little, somewhat (negative connotation)
一下
A2A bit; a moment (used after a verb).
一点儿
A1a little, a bit
一会儿
A1a moment, a while
一部分
B1part; portion; minority
异样
B1different; unusual; strange
关于
A1about, concerning
快要
A2to be about to (happen)
