In 15 Seconds
- Used to discuss future consequences and the big picture.
- Functions like 'In the long run' or 'Long-term'.
- Common in business, parenting, and life advice.
Meaning
This phrase is used to shift focus away from immediate results. It helps you talk about the big picture and the future consequences of a decision.
Key Examples
3 of 6Discussing a career change
虽然现在薪水不高，但从长远来看，这个机会更好。
Although the salary is low now, in the long run, this opportunity is better.
Encouraging a friend to exercise
每天运动很累，但从长远来看，对身体有好处。
Exercising every day is tiring, but in the long run, it's good for your health.
Talking about learning Chinese
学中文很难，但从长远来看，这非常值得。
Learning Chinese is hard, but in the long run, it's totally worth it.
Cultural Background
Reflects the value of patience and long-term planning.
Placement
Always put it at the start of the sentence.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to discuss future consequences and the big picture.
- Functions like 'In the long run' or 'Long-term'.
- Common in business, parenting, and life advice.
What It Means
Think of this as your 'big picture' lens. It is used to evaluate a situation based on its future value. You are looking past today's small headaches. You are focusing on the ultimate reward. It is the verbal equivalent of zooming out on a map.
How To Use It
You usually place 从长远来看 at the start of a sentence. It sets the stage for your main point. It functions like a transition word. You can also put it after the subject. For example: 这个计划从长远来看很不错. It is very flexible in Chinese grammar.
When To Use It
Use it when discussing investments or education. It is perfect for career planning or health goals. Use it when you need to sound wise. It works great in business meetings to justify costs. It also works when comforting a friend about a breakup. You are reminding them that life goes on.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for immediate, trivial things. Don't say it when choosing what to eat for lunch. Unless, of course, you are joking about your cholesterol. Avoid it in high-intensity emergencies. If the house is on fire, nobody cares about the long run. Keep it for topics that actually have a future.
Cultural Background
Chinese culture deeply values patience and foresight. This is rooted in Confucian and Taoist thought. There is a famous saying: 'A person without distant worries will have near troubles.' This phrase reflects that mindset. It shows you are a thoughtful, strategic person. It is highly respected in both social and professional circles.
Common Variations
You might hear 长远来说 which is slightly more oral. Some people just say 长远看 to be brief. In very formal writing, you might see 从长远计. However, 从长远来看 is the gold standard. It is the most balanced and common version you will encounter.
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral-to-formal. It is safe to use in almost any context except for very urgent or trivial immediate situations. It works best when followed by a conclusion or a judgment.
Placement
Always put it at the start of the sentence.
Examples
6虽然现在薪水不高，但从长远来看，这个机会更好。
Although the salary is low now, in the long run, this opportunity is better.
Used here to justify a temporary sacrifice for a better future.
每天运动很累，但从长远来看，对身体有好处。
Exercising every day is tiring, but in the long run, it's good for your health.
A classic way to give healthy lifestyle advice.
学中文很难，但从长远来看，这非常值得。
Learning Chinese is hard, but in the long run, it's totally worth it.
Encouraging persistence in a difficult task.
这个冰箱很贵，但从长远来看，它更省电。
This fridge is expensive, but in the long run, it saves more electricity.
Used to justify a high upfront cost.
从长远来看，我还是找个会做饭的男朋友吧。
In the long run, I should probably find a boyfriend who can cook.
Using a serious phrase for a lighthearted personal realization.
从长远来看，我们需要更多的技术投入。
In the long run, we need more investment in technology.
Standard professional usage for strategic planning.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
______, 学习外语对大脑有好处。
This is the correct idiomatic phrase.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises______, 学习外语对大脑有好处。
This is the correct idiomatic phrase.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsIt's a bit formal, but acceptable.
Related Phrases
高瞻远瞩
similarTo have foresight.
