此后 en 30 secondes
- Connects events in time, meaning 'thereafter' or 'subsequently'.
- Used in formal writing and speech to show chronological order.
- Implies a transition or consequence following an event.
- More formal than '然后' (then) or '之后' (after).
- Core Meaning
- The Chinese conjunction '此后' (cǐhòu) signifies a point in time that follows a previously mentioned event or period. It directly translates to 'thereafter,' 'subsequently,' or 'from then on.' It indicates a temporal sequence, establishing a cause-and-effect relationship or simply marking a progression of events.
- Usage Scenarios
- '此后' is commonly used in both written and spoken Chinese, particularly in more formal contexts or when narrating a sequence of events. It's often found in historical accounts, biographies, official documents, and literary works. In everyday conversation, while still understood, it might be replaced by simpler phrases depending on the desired level of formality. It's crucial for understanding narrative flow and chronological order in Chinese texts. For instance, when discussing a historical event and its consequences, '此后' effectively bridges the gap between the event and what happened next. It helps listeners and readers clearly delineate timeframes and understand the unfolding of a story or process. Consider it a marker that explicitly states, 'after this point,' signaling a shift to a new phase or a series of subsequent actions and developments. It's more than just a simple connector; it imparts a sense of continuity and progression, making narratives more coherent and easier to follow. The word itself carries a slightly more literary or formal tone than some other temporal conjunctions, making its appropriate use a sign of advanced language proficiency.
- Example Sentence
- 他辞去了工作，此后便开始了自由职业生涯。
- Translation Hint
- He resigned from his job, and thereafter began his career as a freelancer.
古老的传说讲述了一个英雄的诞生，此后，他便踏上了拯救王国的征程。
- Nuance
- While '此后' is a direct equivalent of 'thereafter,' its usage in Chinese can sometimes feel more pronounced due to its relatively formal register compared to everyday spoken conjunctions. It’s a word that adds a touch of gravitas to a sentence, making it suitable for situations where precision and a clear chronological flow are important. When you encounter '此后,' pay attention to the preceding event or statement, as it sets the stage for what follows. It's a powerful tool for linking past occurrences to their subsequent developments, creating a strong sense of narrative continuity. Think of it as a sophisticated way to say 'and then,' but with a more defined temporal boundary and a slightly more elevated tone. Its presence in a text often suggests a deliberate effort to structure information chronologically and maintain a clear distinction between different time periods or stages of an event. This makes it invaluable for academic writing, historical analysis, and formal storytelling, where clarity and order are paramount.
- Connecting Events
- The primary function of '此后' is to link two events or periods, with the second naturally following the first. It establishes a temporal relationship where the action or state described after '此后' occurs subsequent to the event or state described before it. This conjunction is indispensable when you need to clearly demarcate a timeline and show a progression of occurrences. For instance, if a significant decision was made, '此后' introduces the consequences or subsequent actions that stemmed from that decision. It's like a signpost indicating 'after this point, this happened.' This is particularly useful in storytelling, historical narration, and even in explaining the development of a plan or project. The clarity it provides in sequencing events makes complex narratives easier to understand and follow.
- Formal Narratives
- In more formal writing, such as essays, reports, or historical accounts, '此后' lends an air of authority and precision. It helps to structure the narrative logically, ensuring that the reader understands the chronological order of events. When discussing a historical figure's life, for example, you might describe their early achievements and then use '此后' to transition to their later accomplishments or challenges. This creates a smooth and coherent flow, guiding the reader through the timeline of events without confusion. The use of '此后' in such contexts signifies a deliberate construction of the narrative, emphasizing the sequential nature of developments and their interconnectedness. It's a tool that elevates the writing, making it sound more polished and academic. Avoid using it in very casual or colloquial settings where simpler conjunctions would suffice, but embrace it when a formal and clear chronological connection is required.
- Indicating Change or Consequence
- '此后' often implies a change or a consequence resulting from a preceding event. It's not just about saying 'then'; it's about indicating that what follows is a direct outcome or a new phase that began after a certain point. For example, after a major policy change, '此后' can introduce the resulting economic or social shifts. This highlights the cause-and-effect relationship between events, making the narrative more impactful and informative. When you see '此后,' consider what preceded it and how the subsequent events are a natural progression or reaction. This understanding is key to grasping the full meaning and implication of the sentence. It’s a conjunction that bridges time and causality, allowing for a deeper understanding of how events unfold and influence each other. The word subtly suggests that the preceding event was a turning point, after which things were different.
他接受了严格的训练，此后，他的剑术突飞猛进。
- Sentence Structure
- '此后' typically functions as a sentence connector, appearing at the beginning of a new clause or sentence. It can be preceded by a comma or a period, depending on the sentence structure. For example: '他完成了他的学业，此后他开始寻找工作。' (He completed his studies, and thereafter he started looking for a job.) Alternatively, it can begin a new sentence: '他完成了他的学业。此后，他开始寻找工作。' (He completed his studies. Thereafter, he started looking for a job.) This flexibility allows for varied sentence construction while maintaining clarity in the temporal sequence.
- Formal Speeches and Presentations
- In formal settings, such as academic lectures, political speeches, or business presentations, '此后' is frequently used to structure the discourse. When a speaker outlines a plan, discusses historical events, or presents a sequence of findings, this conjunction helps to guide the audience through the timeline. For example, a researcher might present initial data and then say, '此后，我们进行了进一步的实验...' (Thereafter, we conducted further experiments...). This signals a clear progression in their research process. Its use here lends an air of professionalism and clarity, ensuring that the audience can easily follow the sequence of information being presented. It helps to maintain a formal tone and a logical flow, which are crucial in these contexts.
- Historical Documentaries and Narrations
- When watching Chinese documentaries or listening to historical narrations, '此后' is a common feature. Documentaries often recount events in chronological order, and this conjunction is the perfect tool to mark the transition from one period or event to the next. For instance, a narrator might describe a significant historical battle and then state, '此后，国家进入了一个和平的时期。' (Thereafter, the country entered a period of peace.). This clearly indicates the temporal shift and the subsequent state of affairs. Its presence in such narrations reinforces the historical context and helps the audience understand the cause-and-effect relationships between different historical moments.
- Literary Works and Formal Writing
- In novels, essays, and other forms of formal written Chinese, '此后' is used extensively to build narrative structure and convey the passage of time. Authors use it to connect plot points, describe character development, or outline the consequences of actions. For example, a character might make a difficult decision, and the author would then write, '此后，他的生活发生了翻天覆地的变化。' (Thereafter, his life underwent earth-shattering changes.). This highlights the impact of the preceding event and sets the stage for the ensuing narrative. Its consistent use in literature underscores its importance in creating a coherent and engaging story that unfolds over time.
- Biographies and Autobiographies
- When recounting the life story of an individual, whether in a biography or an autobiography, '此后' is essential for maintaining a chronological flow. It allows the writer to transition smoothly from one stage of life to another, or from one significant event to the next. For instance, one might describe a person's graduation and then state, '此后，他加入了军队。' (Thereafter, he joined the army.). This clearly marks the progression of their life journey. Its use in these personal narratives helps readers connect with the subject's experiences and understand the sequence of their life events in a structured manner.
在那个伟大的发现之后，科学界的研究方向发生了改变，此后，无数的创新技术涌现出来。
- Overuse in Casual Conversation
- One common mistake learners make is using '此后' too frequently in casual, everyday conversations. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or even stilted in informal settings. For instance, saying '我吃完饭了，此后我去看电视。' (I finished eating, and thereafter I watched TV) might sound a bit unnatural to a native speaker in a relaxed context. In such situations, simpler conjunctions like '然后' (ránhòu - then, afterwards) or '之后' (zhīhòu - after) are more appropriate and common. The key is to match the register of the word to the context of the conversation. '此后' is best reserved for situations where a more formal or literary tone is desired.
- Confusing with '之后' (zhīhòu)
- Learners often confuse '此后' with '之后' (zhīhòu), which also means 'after' or 'afterwards.' While they can sometimes be interchangeable, '此后' generally carries a more formal and literary tone, often implying a more significant temporal shift or consequence. '之后' is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. A mistake is to use '此后' when '之后' would be more natural, or vice versa. For example, in a casual retelling of daily events, '我放学了，之后我回家了。' (I finished school, after that I went home) is more common than '我放学了，此后我回家了。' Understanding this nuance in formality is crucial for appropriate usage. '此后' often marks a more definitive transition or a consequence that is more substantial.
- Misplacing it in the Sentence
- '此后' primarily functions as a conjunction connecting clauses or sentences. A mistake is to try to use it as a standalone adverb or to place it incorrectly within a sentence. For instance, saying '我此后去公园。' (I thereafter go to the park) is not standard. It should typically introduce a new clause or sentence that follows a preceding event. The correct structure is usually '[Event A], 此后 [Event B].' or '[Event A]。此后，[Event B]。' Incorrect placement can disrupt the flow and meaning of the sentence, making it sound awkward or ungrammatical. Always ensure it introduces the subsequent event or state clearly after the initial event has been established.
- Ignoring Contextual Formality
- The most significant mistake is failing to consider the formality of the context. '此后' belongs to a higher register of language. Using it in a casual chat with friends or in informal written communication can make the speaker or writer appear out of touch or overly academic. Conversely, in formal writing or speeches where it is appropriate, failing to use it might make the text sound less sophisticated or structured. Always assess the situation: is it a formal report, a historical account, or a casual conversation? The answer will guide you on whether '此后' is the right choice.
错误示例：我昨天考试了，此后我很放松。
- 之后 (zhīhòu)
- Comparison: '之后' is a very common and versatile word meaning 'after' or 'afterwards.' It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It generally refers to the time that follows an event.
Usage: '我吃完饭之后，去散步了。' (After I finished eating, I went for a walk.) This is a natural and common sentence.
Formality: Neutral to slightly informal.
When to use '此后' instead: When you want to emphasize a more significant or consequential transition, especially in formal writing or speech, '此后' might be preferred for its more elevated tone. For everyday sequencing, '之后' is usually the go-to choice. - 然后 (ránhòu)
- Comparison: '然后' is a very common conjunction used to connect sequential actions, especially in spoken language. It often implies a simple step-by-step progression.
Usage: '我先洗脸，然后刷牙。' (I'll wash my face first, then brush my teeth.) This is a typical use in daily routines.
Formality: Informal to neutral.
When to use '此后' instead: '然后' is generally too casual for formal narratives or when discussing significant consequences. '此后' is used for more formal sequencing and often implies a more profound change or a more distant point in time following an event. - 自此 (zìcǐ)
- Comparison: '自此' means 'from this point on' or 'since then.' It strongly emphasizes the starting point of a new situation or era. It is quite formal and often used in historical or literary contexts.
Usage: '自此，他的人生走向了另一条道路。' (From this point on, his life took another path.)
Formality: Formal.
When to use '此后' instead: While '自此' focuses on the beginning of a new era, '此后' focuses more on the events that *follow* that point. If the emphasis is on the continuation and subsequent occurrences rather than the definitive start of a new phase, '此后' might be more appropriate. However, they are often used in similar formal contexts. - 从此以后 (cóngcǐ yǐhòu)
- Comparison: This is a more emphatic version of '自此,' meaning 'from then on' or 'ever since.' It is also formal and used to mark a significant turning point.
Usage: '自从那次失败以后，他从此以后都非常谨慎。' (Since that failure, he has been very cautious ever since.)
Formality: Formal.
When to use '此后' instead: Similar to '自此,' '从此以后' emphasizes the commencement of a new state. '此后' is more about the sequence of events that unfold after a specific point. If the narrative is about the ongoing effects and subsequent actions rather than the definitive start of a new way of being, '此后' is a good alternative.
他学习了新的技能，此后，他的职业生涯有了新的发展。
How Formal Is It?
Le savais-tu ?
The character '后' (hòu) has evolved significantly in its meaning and pronunciation. Originally, it referred to a queen or empress, and it also came to mean 'behind' or 'after.' The pronunciation and usage as a temporal marker have become very common in modern Chinese. The character itself is sometimes confused with '前' (qián - before), but their meanings are diametrically opposed in temporal contexts.
Guide de prononciation
- Pronouncing 'ci' as 'see' or 'tsi'.
- Pronouncing 'hou' with a hard 'h' like in 'house' instead of a softer, breathy sound.
- Incorrectly applying tones, especially by making them flat or only falling.
- Separating the diphthong 'ou' instead of pronouncing it smoothly.
Niveau de difficulté
Understanding '此后' is crucial for comprehending formal texts, historical narratives, and academic articles. Its formal register means it might not appear in very basic reading materials, but it is common in B2+ level texts. Recognizing its function as a temporal connector is key to following the author's intended sequence of events and understanding the logical flow of arguments or narratives.
Using '此后' correctly in writing requires an awareness of register. While it's a powerful tool for formal writing, overuse in informal contexts can sound unnatural. Learners need to practice distinguishing between formal and informal situations to apply it appropriately, ensuring their writing maintains the desired tone and clarity.
While '此后' is understood in spoken Chinese, it's less common in casual conversation compared to '然后' or '之后'. Its use in speaking often signals a more formal presentation, speech, or a deliberate attempt at sophisticated expression. Learners should be comfortable recognizing it when heard but may choose simpler alternatives in everyday dialogue.
In formal spoken contexts like news reports, documentaries, or speeches, '此后' is frequently used. Effective listening comprehension at this level requires understanding its role in marking temporal shifts and causal links within the narrative.
Quoi apprendre ensuite
Prérequis
Apprends ensuite
Avancé
Grammaire à connaître
Conjunctions for Temporal Sequence
'此后' is a conjunction that connects clauses or sentences to indicate a temporal sequence, similar to 'thereafter' or 'subsequently' in English. It typically follows the event that marks the starting point in time.
Formality and Register
'此后' is considered a more formal conjunction. In informal spoken Chinese, '然后' (ránhòu) or '之后' (zhīhòu) are often preferred for simplicity and naturalness.
Sentence Structure with Conjunctions
Conjunctions like '此后' often appear at the beginning of a new clause or sentence, linking it to the preceding one. For example: '他成功了，此后他更加努力了。'
Cause and Effect
'此后' can often imply a cause-and-effect relationship, where the event described after '此后' is a consequence or result of the preceding event.
Distinguishing Similar Terms
Understanding the subtle differences in formality and usage between '此后', '之后', and '然后' is key to using them appropriately in different contexts.
Exemples par niveau
他接受了严格的训练，此后，他的剑术突飞猛进。
He underwent rigorous training, and thereafter, his swordsmanship advanced by leaps and bounds.
'此后' connects the cause (training) to the effect (improved skill).
公司调整了经营策略，此后，市场份额显著增长。
The company adjusted its business strategy, and subsequently, its market share grew significantly.
Indicates the consequence of a strategic change.
这场大雨过后，空气变得格外清新，此后几天天气都很好。
After this heavy rain, the air became exceptionally fresh, and thereafter the weather was good for several days.
Connects a weather event to a subsequent period of good weather.
他完成了大学学业，此后他选择出国深造。
He completed his university studies, and thereafter he chose to pursue further education abroad.
Marks the transition from one life stage to another.
改革开放初期，中国经济迎来了快速发展，此后，人民生活水平不断提高。
In the early days of reform and opening up, China's economy experienced rapid development, and subsequently, the living standards of the people continuously improved.
Links a historical period to its long-term consequences.
他做出了一个艰难的决定，此后，他的人生轨迹完全改变了。
He made a difficult decision, and thereafter, his life's trajectory changed completely.
Highlights a significant turning point and its aftermath.
科学家们发现了新的治疗方法，此后，许多病人的病情得到了有效控制。
Scientists discovered a new treatment method, and subsequently, the conditions of many patients were effectively controlled.
Shows the direct impact of a scientific discovery.
政府颁布了新的环保法规，此后，工厂的污染排放量大幅下降。
The government issued new environmental protection regulations, and thereafter, the pollution emissions from factories decreased significantly.
Connects a policy change to its environmental outcome.
Synonymes
Antonymes
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
— Not long after; soon thereafter.
他刚到家，此后不久就接到了一个紧急电话。
— For a period thereafter; for some time after.
这次改革对社会产生了深远影响，此后一段时间，人们都在适应新的变化。
— In retrospect; looking back afterwards.
此后看来，那个决定虽然冒险，但最终是正确的。
— What happened thereafter; subsequent events.
他辞去了职务，此后发生的事情出乎所有人的意料。
— The situation thereafter; the subsequent circumstances.
战争结束后，此后情况逐渐稳定下来。
— Subsequent development; further progress.
公司投资了研发部门，此后发展迅猛。
— Change thereafter; subsequent transformation.
那次旅行让他的人生观彻底改变，此后他的人生轨迹完全不同了。
— Signs thereafter; indications of what was to come.
虽然当时不明显，但此后迹象表明了问题的严重性。
— The result thereafter; the subsequent outcome.
他付出了艰苦的努力，此后结果是值得的。
— For several years thereafter.
他离开了家乡，此后数年杳无音信。
Souvent confondu avec
'之后' is a more general term for 'after' and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. '此后' is typically more formal and often implies a more significant or consequential transition.
'然后' is primarily used for simple sequential actions, especially in spoken language, and is generally considered informal. '此后' is more formal and used for more significant temporal shifts.
'此前' means 'before this' and is the direct temporal opposite of '此后', which means 'after this'. They are both formal terms used to denote specific points in time relative to a reference event.
Expressions idiomatiques
— To carry forward past achievements and open up new paths for the future. This idiom implies building upon the past and moving forward, a concept closely related to the temporal progression implied by '此后'.
我们要继承革命先辈的光荣传统，继往开来，创造更美好的未来。
Formal, aspirational— To change with each passing day; to develop rapidly. While not directly containing '此后', this idiom describes a state of continuous progress that happens 'thereafter' a period of innovation or change.
科技发展日新月异，我们必须不断学习才能跟上时代的步伐。
Descriptive, positive— Vast changes over time; the world transformed. This idiom describes immense changes that occur over long periods, implying a vast 'thereafter' from a former state.
几十年过去了，这里早已物是人非，真是沧海桑田。
Literary, emphasizing change— Rapid and unpredictable changes; a volatile situation. This idiom describes a series of dramatic shifts that occur over time, fitting the idea of a dynamic 'thereafter'.
国际形势风云变幻，我们需要保持警惕。
Descriptive, often political— Lessons learned from past mistakes; a warning from past experience. This idiom highlights the importance of learning from what happened 'before' to guide what happens 'thereafter'.
我们要以史为鉴，吸取前车之鉴，避免重蹈覆辙。
Cautionary, historical— The latecomers surpass the early starters. This idiom describes a situation where those who start later achieve greater success, implying a progression from an earlier state to a later, superior one.
这部年轻的球队虽然起步晚，但凭借刻苦训练，最终后来居上，赢得了冠军。
Competitive, positive— To proceed step by step; to advance in an orderly way. This idiom describes a process of gradual development that occurs over time, fitting the sequential nature of '此后'.
学习语言需要循序渐进，不能急于求成。
Instructional, process-oriented— Time has passed, and circumstances have changed. This idiom describes a situation where the passage of time ('此后') has led to a different state of affairs.
很多事情事过境迁，不必再耿耿于怀。
Reflective, about change— What was wrong in the past is right now; a change in perspective or values over time. This implies a transformation that has occurred 'thereafter' a period of time.
随着时代的发展，许多过去的观念已经变得昔非今是。
Emphasizing change in values— To accumulate over a long period; to grow gradually. This idiom describes a process of accumulation that happens over time, fitting the concept of events unfolding 'thereafter'.
知识是日积月累的过程，需要长期的坚持和努力。
Descriptive of gradual processesFacile à confondre
Both '此后' and '之后' indicate a sequence of events after a particular point in time.
'此后' is generally more formal and literary, often used to mark a significant transition or consequence. '之后' is more common and versatile, usable in both formal and informal contexts. For everyday sequencing, '之后' is usually preferred.
Formal: 改革开放此后，中国经济迅速发展。(Reform and opening up thereafter, China's economy rapidly developed.) Informal: 我吃完饭之后，就去睡觉了。(After I finished eating, I went to sleep.)
Both are used to connect sequential events.
'然后' is predominantly used in spoken, informal language to link simple, consecutive actions. '此后' is formal and used for more significant temporal shifts or consequential events, often in writing or formal speeches. Using '此后' in casual chat can sound overly stiff.
Casual: 我先洗手，然后吃饭。(I wash my hands first, then eat.) Formal: 战役胜利此后，敌人再无力反击。(After the battle victory, the enemy was no longer able to counterattack.)
Both '此后' and '此前' use the character '此' (this) and relate to time.
'此后' means 'after this' or 'thereafter,' indicating what happens subsequently. '此前' means 'before this' or 'prior to this,' indicating what happened previously. They are direct temporal opposites.
此后：他接受了训练，此后他变得更强壮。(He received training, and thereafter he became stronger.) 此前：此前，他从未有过这样的经历。(Prior to this, he had never had such an experience.)
Both are formal conjunctions indicating a point in time after an event.
'自此' emphasizes the starting point of a new phase or era ('from this point on'). '此后' focuses more on the events that unfold subsequently after that point. '自此' often marks a more definitive beginning.
自此：自此，他的人生进入了新的篇章。(From this point on, his life entered a new chapter.) 此后：他改变了生活方式，此后他感觉更健康。(He changed his lifestyle, and thereafter he felt healthier.)
Both are formal temporal conjunctions.
'嗣后' is extremely formal, often used in legal or official documents, meaning 'subsequently' or 'thereafter.' It's much rarer in general use than '此后.' '此后' is formal but more broadly applicable in literature, history, and speeches.
嗣后：嗣后，所有申请须经批准。(Thereafter, all applications must be approved.) 此后：他完成了报告，此后他提交了申请。(He completed the report, and thereafter he submitted the application.)
Structures de phrases
[Event A] + ，此后 + [Event B].
他努力学习，此后他顺利通过了考试。
[Event A] 。此后，[Event B] 。
公司进行了改革。此后，效率显著提升。
在 [Time/Event] 之后，此后 [Subsequent action/state].
在毕业之后，此后他选择创业。
[Description of situation] ，此后不久 ，[New development].
他刚安顿下来，此后不久，就接到了一个意外的通知。
事后看来，[Event A] ，此后 [Reflection].
事后看来，那个决定虽然仓促，但此后他认为那是正确的。
[Time Period] ，此后 [Consequence].
改革开放初期，中国经济飞速发展，此后人民生活水平不断提高。
[Cause] ，此后 [Effect].
他接受了严格的训练，此后他的表现突飞猛进。
从 [Starting Point] 起，此后 [Ongoing changes].
从那次事故起，此后他变得十分谨慎。
Famille de mots
Apparenté
Comment l'utiliser
Moderately frequent in formal written Chinese and speeches, less frequent in casual spoken Chinese.
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Using '此后' in very casual conversation.
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In casual conversation, use '然后' or '之后'. For example, instead of '我吃完饭了，此后我去看电视', say '我吃完饭了，然后/之后我就看电视'.
'此后' has a formal register. Its overuse in informal settings makes the speaker sound unnatural or overly academic.
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Confusing '此后' with '此前'.
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'此后' means 'after this' (subsequently). '此前' means 'before this' (previously). For example, '会议结束了，此后大家才离开。' (The meeting ended, and only thereafter did everyone leave.) vs. '会议开始前，此前我从未见过他。' (Before the meeting started, previously I had never seen him.)
They are direct temporal opposites. '此后' looks forward from a point, while '此前' looks backward.
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Using '此后' as a standalone adverb mid-sentence.
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'此后' functions as a conjunction or sentence connector. It should introduce a subsequent event or clause. Correct structure: '[Event A], 此后 [Event B].' or '[Event A]。此后，[Event B]。'. Incorrect: '我此后去公园。'
Its grammatical function is to link events or clauses, not to modify a verb directly within the same clause in the way some adverbs do.
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Using '此后' when '之后' or '然后' would be more natural for simple sequencing.
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For simple, everyday sequences, '之后' or '然后' are more appropriate. Example: '我早上起床，之后/然后刷牙。' (I wake up in the morning, and then brush my teeth.)
'此后' implies a more formal or significant transition. Using it for mundane sequential actions can sound pompous.
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Pronouncing 'ci' or 'hou' incorrectly.
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Pronounce 'ci' with a 'ts' sound and 'hou' with a soft, breathy 'h' and 'ou' diphthong. Pay attention to the third tone on both syllables (cǐhòu).
Incorrect pronunciation, especially of the initial consonant sounds and tones, can hinder comprehension and make the speaker sound unclear.
Astuces
Mind the Register
Remember that '此后' is generally more formal than '然后' or '之后'. Use it when you want to sound more polished, academic, or are recounting historical events or official matters. In casual chats, sticking to '然后' or '之后' will sound more natural.
Focus on the Transition
The key function of '此后' is to mark a transition in time. Always ensure that the event or situation described before '此后' clearly sets the stage for what follows. It creates a logical flow from one point to the next.
Implied Causality
Often, '此后' implies a consequence or a direct result of the preceding event. When you see '此后,' think about how the subsequent action or state is related to what came before it. This can deepen your understanding of the text.
Sentence Connector
'此后' typically functions as a connector between clauses or sentences. It can appear at the beginning of a new sentence or clause, clearly signaling the start of the subsequent event or period.
Read and Listen Actively
Pay attention to where and how '此后' is used in formal Chinese texts, news reports, documentaries, and speeches. Noticing its context will help you internalize its appropriate usage and formality.
Write with Purpose
When practicing writing, try creating sentences that clearly demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship or a significant temporal shift. This will help you naturally incorporate '此后' where it fits best.
Compare with Alternatives
Actively compare '此后' with '之后' and '然后'. Understanding their differences in formality and common usage will prevent mistakes and enhance your fluency.
Master the Tones
Correct pronunciation, especially the two third tones in 'cǐhòu', is important for sounding natural. Practice the dipping and rising contour for both syllables.
Use Mnemonics
Create associations, like linking '此' to 'see' and '后' to 'how things happen after,' or visualizing a formal timeline. These memory aids can make recalling the word and its meaning easier.
Mémorise-le
Moyen mnémotechnique
Think of '此' (cǐ) sounding like 'see' – you 'see' an event happen. Then, '后' (hòu) sounds like 'how' – 'how' things happen *after* you see it. So, 'See' (the event) and then 'How' (it proceeds) = '此后'.
Association visuelle
Imagine a timeline with a distinct point marked '此' (this event). Draw an arrow extending from this point labeled '后' (after), leading to the subsequent events. Visualize the arrow as a clear, formal pathway.
Word Web
Défi
Try to explain a simple sequence of your daily routine (e.g., waking up, brushing teeth, eating breakfast) using '此后' for at least two transitions. Remember to keep it slightly formal, as if you were writing a brief diary entry.
Origine du mot
The word '此后' is a compound word formed from '此' (cǐ) and '后' (hòu). '此' is a demonstrative pronoun meaning 'this' or 'here,' and it is a more formal or literary alternative to '这' (zhè). '后' (hòu) in this context means 'after' or 'behind,' referring to time or position. Together, '此后' literally means 'after this,' indicating a temporal sequence.
Sens originel : Literally 'after this point in time'.
Sino-TibetanContexte culturel
The word itself is neutral and does not carry any sensitive connotations. Its usage is dictated by context and formality. Misusing it in informal settings might lead to awkwardness, but it does not involve any cultural taboos.
In English, 'thereafter,' 'subsequently,' and 'from then on' are direct translations. However, in everyday English conversation, we often use simpler terms like 'then,' 'after that,' or 'next.' The formal nature of '此后' in Chinese is comparable to the formal usage of 'thereafter' or 'subsequently' in English.
Pratique dans la vie réelle
Contextes réels
Narrating historical events
- 此后，局势发生了重大变化。
- 在那个时期，此后中国进入了一个新的发展阶段。
- 历史记载，此后不久，战争便结束了。
Describing personal life progression
- 我毕业了，此后我决定继续深造。
- 他搬到了新的城市，此后他的生活充满了挑战。
- 那次经历改变了我，此后我更加珍惜生活。
Formal business or project reports
- 项目第一阶段已完成，此后我们将进入第二阶段。
- 公司调整了策略，此后销售额明显上升。
- 会议结束后，此后我们将发布详细的声明。
Literary or narrative writing
- 他做出了一个艰难的决定，此后，他的命运便注定了。
- 故事的结尾，此后一切都平静了下来。
- 在那个神秘的夜晚，此后发生了一连串不可思议的事情。
Discussing consequences of actions or policies
- 政府颁布了新规定，此后，市民的生活受到了影响。
- 他犯了一个错误，此后他承担了所有的后果。
- 科技的进步，此后带来了巨大的社会变革。
Amorces de conversation
"What significant event in your life happened, and what was '此后' (thereafter) like?"
"Can you think of a historical moment where '此后' describes a major turning point?"
"If you were writing a formal speech, how would you use '此后' to transition between topics?"
"How does the formality of '此后' compare to everyday words like 'then' in English?"
"Describe a time when '此后' marked a clear change in your routine or perspective."
Sujets d'écriture
Reflect on a major decision you made. Describe the event and then detail what happened '此后' (thereafter) in your life.
Write a short fictional story about a character who experiences a significant event. Use '此后' to describe the subsequent changes in their life or the world around them.
Imagine you are writing a formal report about a past project. Use '此后' to describe the phases or outcomes that followed the initial implementation.
Consider a recent news event. How did '此后' (subsequently) affect the situation or the people involved?
Write about a personal goal you achieved. Describe the effort involved and then what happened '此后' (from then on) as a result of your success.
Questions fréquentes
10 questions'此后' is generally considered formal or literary. While it can be understood in spoken Chinese, it's less common in casual conversation than '然后' or '之后'. In formal settings like academic lectures, historical narratives, or official documents, '此后' is appropriate and expected for its precision and tone.
The main difference lies in formality and nuance. '之后' is a more general and common term for 'after' or 'afterwards,' usable in almost any context. '此后' is more formal and often implies a more significant, consequential, or distinct temporal shift following an event. Think of '此后' as a more elevated way to say 'thereafter'.
Yes, '此后' can be used at the beginning of a sentence to connect it to the preceding event or statement. For example: '他完成了学业。此后，他开始寻找工作。' (He completed his studies. Thereafter, he started looking for a job.) It functions as a sentence connector.
No, '此后' itself does not carry negative connotations. Its meaning is purely temporal: 'after this.' Any perceived negativity would come from the context of the events described following '此后'.
You should use '此后' when you want to convey a sense of formality, significance, or a consequential transition between events, especially in writing or formal speech. Use '然后' for simple, sequential actions in casual conversation or less formal writing.
'此后' itself does not specify the duration of the time gap. It simply indicates that something happened after a preceding event. You can add phrases like '不久' (not long after) or '多年' (many years) to specify the duration, e.g., '此后不久' or '此后多年'.
The pronunciation is cǐhòu. Both syllables have the third tone (dipping and rising). The 'cǐ' is like 'ts' + 'i', and 'hòu' has a soft, breathy 'h' followed by 'ou'. The combination of two third tones creates a distinct falling-rising contour.
Primarily, '此后' refers to events following a past or present event. While it can indirectly relate to future plans stemming from a current decision, its core function is to link what comes *after* a defined point in time, which is usually established in the preceding context. For future-oriented sequences, words like '将来' (jiānglái - in the future) or '往后' (wǎnghòu - going forward) might be more direct.
Yes, '此后' is commonly found in Chinese language textbooks, especially those aimed at intermediate to advanced learners (B2 CEFR level and above). It is used to introduce more complex sentence structures and formal vocabulary necessary for understanding authentic Chinese materials.
Common phrases include '此后不久' (soon thereafter), '此后一段时间' (for a period thereafter), '此后看来' (in retrospect), and '此后发生' (what happened thereafter). These phrases help to specify the temporal relationship more precisely.
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Summary
Use '此后' to indicate events that happened 'thereafter' or 'subsequently,' especially in formal contexts like historical accounts or academic writing, to clearly mark a temporal sequence and its consequences.
- Connects events in time, meaning 'thereafter' or 'subsequently'.
- Used in formal writing and speech to show chronological order.
- Implies a transition or consequence following an event.
- More formal than '然后' (then) or '之后' (after).
Mind the Register
Remember that '此后' is generally more formal than '然后' or '之后'. Use it when you want to sound more polished, academic, or are recounting historical events or official matters. In casual chats, sticking to '然后' or '之后' will sound more natural.
Focus on the Transition
The key function of '此后' is to mark a transition in time. Always ensure that the event or situation described before '此后' clearly sets the stage for what follows. It creates a logical flow from one point to the next.
Implied Causality
Often, '此后' implies a consequence or a direct result of the preceding event. When you see '此后,' think about how the subsequent action or state is related to what came before it. This can deepen your understanding of the text.
Sentence Connector
'此后' typically functions as a connector between clauses or sentences. It can appear at the beginning of a new sentence or clause, clearly signaling the start of the subsequent event or period.
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