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B1 noun/verb #1,000 most common 14 min read

经历

jingli Top 1,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 经历 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 经历 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are just beginning their journey into the Chinese language. The word 经历 (jīnglì) is generally considered too advanced and abstract for absolute beginners, who are focused on concrete vocabulary like numbers, basic greetings, food, and simple daily routines. However, an A1 learner might occasionally hear this word in passing, perhaps when a teacher or a more advanced speaker is talking about their life. If an A1 learner encounters 经历, they should simply recognize it as a word related to 'something that happened in the past' or 'a life story.' They are not expected to use it actively. Instead, A1 learners express past events using very simple structures, such as combining a verb with the aspect particle 了 (le) to indicate completion, like '我去了中国' (I went to China). They might also use basic time words like 昨天 (yesterday) or 去年 (last year) to frame their simple narratives. The concept of an 'experience' as an abstract noun or a complex verb process is beyond the scope of A1 grammar and vocabulary. The focus remains on building a foundation of essential, tangible words before moving on to concepts that describe the human condition or personal history. Therefore, 经历 serves as a marker of future learning, a word that A1 students will eventually master as they progress to higher levels and begin to share more complex stories about their lives.

As learners progress to the A2 level, they begin to expand their ability to talk about past events and personal routines. While 经历 (jīnglì) is still slightly above the core A2 vocabulary, ambitious learners might start to recognize it and perhaps use it in very simple, highly structured contexts. At this stage, students are comfortable using the experiential particle 过 (guò) to say 'I have done something before' (e.g., 我去过北京 - I have been to Beijing). This is the grammatical foundation for understanding 经历. An A2 learner might learn the noun phrase 一次经历 (one experience) to describe a specific event, such as a trip or a memorable day. They might say something like '去中国是一次很好的经历' (Going to China was a very good experience). However, they will likely struggle with using it as a verb or distinguishing it from 经验 (jīngyàn - skills/experience). The focus at A2 is still on clear, straightforward communication about familiar topics. Therefore, while 经历 can be introduced as a useful noun for storytelling, teachers and learners should not expect full mastery of its nuances. It is a transitional word at this level, bridging the gap between simple past tense descriptions and the more complex narrative abilities required at the B1 level. A2 learners should focus on comprehending the word when they hear it in simple stories and practicing it in fixed phrases.

The B1 level is where 经历 (jīnglì) truly becomes an essential and active part of a learner's vocabulary. At this intermediate stage, students are expected to be able to narrate stories, describe past events in detail, and express their feelings about those events. 经历 is the perfect tool for these tasks. B1 learners must master both its noun and verb forms. As a noun, they should be able to use it with adjectives like 难忘的 (unforgettable) or 有趣的 (interesting), forming sentences like '那是一次难忘的经历' (That was an unforgettable experience). As a verb, they learn to pair it with objects like 困难 (difficulties) or 变化 (changes), such as '他经历了很多困难' (He experienced many difficulties). Crucially, B1 is the level where learners must explicitly learn the difference between 经历 (life events) and 经验 (practical skills), as confusing the two is a hallmark of lower proficiency. They will practice using 经历 in contexts like job interviews (talking about their background) or sharing travel anecdotes. The word allows B1 students to move beyond simple transactional language and begin building deeper interpersonal connections by sharing their personal histories. Mastery of 经历 at this level demonstrates a significant leap in narrative capability and emotional expression in Chinese.

At the B2 level, learners are expected to use 经历 (jīnglì) with a high degree of fluency, accuracy, and nuance. They move beyond simple storytelling and begin to use the word in more abstract, professional, and analytical contexts. B2 learners can comfortably discuss complex life trajectories, historical events, and psychological impacts. They will use more sophisticated collocations, such as 丰富的经历 (rich experiences), 痛苦的经历 (painful experiences), or 坎坷的经历 (bumpy/rough experiences). They understand how to use 经历 to justify opinions or explain personal growth, often using phrases like '根据我的个人经历...' (Based on my personal experience...). Furthermore, B2 students can seamlessly integrate 经历 into complex sentence structures, using it alongside advanced grammar patterns to express cause and effect, concession, or hypothetical situations. They are also fully aware of the distinctions between 经历, 经验, 体验, and 阅历, choosing the precise word needed for the context. In professional settings, they can articulate their 工作经历 (work history) clearly and persuasively. At this upper-intermediate stage, 经历 is not just a vocabulary word; it is a conceptual tool used to navigate sophisticated conversations about life, society, and personal development, reflecting a deep understanding of Chinese communicative norms.

For C1 learners, 经历 (jīnglì) is fully integrated into their active vocabulary, and they use it with native-like intuition. At this advanced level, the focus shifts from basic comprehension and usage to stylistic elegance and rhetorical effectiveness. C1 learners encounter and employ 经历 in highly formal, literary, and academic contexts. They can read and understand biographies, historical analyses, and journalistic pieces where 经历 is used to describe the sweeping narratives of individuals, nations, or institutions. They might use it to discuss the collective 经历 of a generation or the historical 经历 of a country. In spoken Chinese, they can use the word to deliver compelling speeches, participate in deep philosophical discussions, or engage in nuanced debates. They are comfortable with idiomatic expressions and four-character idioms that incorporate the concept of experience, such as 历经沧桑 (having experienced the vicissitudes of life). C1 learners also understand the subtle emotional undertones that 经历 can carry depending on the context, using it to evoke empathy, demonstrate resilience, or highlight profound transformation. Their use of the word is characterized by precision, variety, and a deep appreciation for the cultural and historical weight that the concept of 'experience' holds in Chinese society.

At the C2 level, representing near-native proficiency, the understanding and application of 经历 (jīnglì) are absolute and effortless. C2 speakers manipulate the word with complete mastery across all registers, from the most colloquial slang to the most elevated literary prose. They can play with its nuances, using it ironically, metaphorically, or poetically. They understand the etymological roots of the characters 经 and 历 and how this history informs the word's modern usage. In academic or professional writing, they deploy 经历 to construct complex arguments, analyze sociological trends, or critique historical narratives. They can seamlessly substitute 经历 with highly specific synonyms depending on the exact shade of meaning required by the text. Furthermore, C2 learners are attuned to the sociolinguistic aspects of the word, understanding how different generations or social groups might talk about their 经历 differently. They can effortlessly comprehend and produce texts where 经历 is deeply embedded in complex cultural references or historical allusions. For a C2 speaker, 经历 is not merely a word to be translated; it is a fundamental concept through which they perceive and articulate the human experience in Chinese, demonstrating a profound and intimate connection with the language and its culture.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

经历 in 30 Seconds

Noun: A personal experience or life event.
Verb: To go through, undergo, or experience something.
Focuses on the narrative of what happened, not skills.
Often paired with words like 'difficulties' or 'unforgettable'.

The Chinese word 经历 (jīnglì) is a highly versatile and essential vocabulary item for intermediate learners, functioning seamlessly as both a noun and a verb. At its core, it translates to 'experience' or 'to experience,' but its usage is deeply tied to the concept of passing through time and events. When we break down the characters, 经 (jīng) means 'to pass through' or 'to undergo,' while 历 (lì) means 'to experience' or 'history/calendar.' Together, they form a word that encapsulates the journey of living through specific events, hardships, adventures, or phases of life. Understanding 经历 requires distinguishing it from other English equivalents of 'experience,' particularly in how it emphasizes the narrative of what happened to you rather than the skills you acquired from it.

Noun Usage: As a noun, 经历 refers to the actual events, situations, or periods of time that a person has lived through. It is often translated as 'an experience' or 'one's past experiences.' For example, traveling around the world, surviving a natural disaster, or studying abroad are all considered 经历. It focuses on the autobiographical aspect of a person's life.
Verb Usage: As a verb, 经历 means 'to go through,' 'to undergo,' or 'to experience.' It is an action word that describes the process of living through a situation. You can 经历 a difficult time, 经历 a change, or 经历 a period of growth. It is often followed by abstract nouns representing events or phases.
Emotional Weight: 经历 often carries a significant emotional or psychological weight. While you can use it for mundane things, it is most naturally applied to events that leave a lasting impression, shape one's character, or involve overcoming adversity. It implies a sense of personal transformation or survival.

People use 经历 in a wide variety of contexts, from casual conversations about travel to formal interviews about one's background. When you meet someone new, discussing your 经历 is a common way to build rapport and share your life story. In professional settings, employers might ask about your 经历 to understand your background, though they will also ask about your 经验 (jīngyàn - practical experience/skills). Let's look at some examples of how it is used in everyday language.

这真是一次难忘的经历。

他经历过很多困难。

我的个人经历告诉我，不要轻易放弃。

他们共同经历了那场灾难。

这段经历改变了他的人生观。

In summary, 经历 is the word you reach for when you want to talk about the chapters of your life. It is the narrative thread that connects your past to your present. Whether you are recounting a thrilling adventure, a period of intense study, or a challenging personal crisis, 经历 provides the linguistic framework to share those profound human moments with others. Mastering this word will significantly enhance your ability to connect with native Chinese speakers on a deeper, more personal level.

Using 经历 (jīnglì) correctly in sentences requires an understanding of its dual nature as both a noun and a verb, as well as the specific grammatical structures and collocations it frequently pairs with. Because it represents the concept of living through events, its syntactic behavior is quite predictable once you grasp the underlying logic. Let us explore the various ways to construct sentences with 经历, starting with its function as a noun and moving to its role as a verb, while highlighting common modifiers and complementary words that native speakers use to add nuance and depth to their expressions.

As a Subject or Object (Noun): When 经历 is used as a noun, it often serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It is frequently modified by adjectives that describe the nature of the experience. Common adjectives include 难忘的 (unforgettable), 丰富的 (rich/abundant), 痛苦的 (painful), and 奇妙的 (wonderful). For example, you might say '他有丰富的经历' (He has rich experiences) or '那是一次可怕的经历' (That was a terrible experience). Notice the use of the structural particle 的 (de) to connect the adjective to the noun.
With Measure Words: The most common measure words (classifiers) used with the noun 经历 are 次 (cì) for a single instance of an experience, and 段 (duàn) for a period of time characterized by a certain experience. For instance, '一次经历' means 'an experience' (a specific event), while '一段经历' means 'a period of experience' (like a phase of life or a prolonged event). You might say '这段经历让我成长了很多' (This period of experience made me grow a lot).
As a Predicate (Verb): When functioning as a verb, 经历 is typically followed by an object that represents the event, situation, or hardship that was undergone. Common objects include 困难 (difficulties), 挫折 (setbacks), 变化 (changes), and 风雨 (wind and rain - metaphorically meaning hardships). For example, '我们经历了许多困难' (We experienced many difficulties). It is very common to use the aspect particle 了 (le) to indicate completion, or 过 (guò) to indicate past experience.

To truly master 经历, you must observe it in action. The following examples demonstrate the flexibility of the word across different sentence structures and contexts. Pay attention to whether it is acting as a noun or a verb, and note the accompanying vocabulary.

我不想再经历一次那样的痛苦了。

每个人都有自己独特的经历。

这座城市经历了巨大的变化。

分享你的经历可以帮助其他人。

只有经历过失败，才能懂得成功的珍贵。

By practicing these sentence patterns, you will begin to internalize the rhythm and logic of 经历. Remember that it is a word deeply connected to the passage of time and the accumulation of life events. Whether you are describing a fleeting moment of joy or a prolonged period of struggle, 经历 provides the necessary linguistic structure to convey the depth and reality of human existence. Keep these examples in mind as you construct your own sentences, and do not be afraid to experiment with different adjectives and objects to expand your expressive range.

The word 经历 (jīnglì) is ubiquitous in both spoken and written Chinese, appearing across a vast spectrum of contexts ranging from intimate personal conversations to formal literary texts. Because it touches upon the fundamental human condition of living through events and accumulating a personal history, it is a word you will encounter frequently as you immerse yourself in the language. Understanding the specific environments where 经历 is most commonly used will help you anticipate its appearance and comprehend its nuanced meanings in real-time. Let us explore the primary domains where this word thrives and how native speakers employ it to share their stories and perspectives.

Personal Storytelling and Daily Conversation: In everyday life, 经历 is the go-to word for sharing personal anecdotes. When friends gather to catch up, they often talk about their recent 经历—perhaps a trip they took, a strange encounter they had, or a difficult period they recently navigated. You will hear phrases like '我跟你说个神奇的经历' (Let me tell you about a magical experience) or '最近经历了很多事' (I've been through a lot recently). It is the cornerstone of narrative communication in casual settings.
Job Interviews and Professional Introductions: In professional environments, 经历 takes on a slightly more formal tone. Interviewers frequently ask candidates to describe their 工作经历 (work experience) or 学习经历 (educational background). Here, the word refers to the chronological sequence of roles, projects, or institutions a person has been involved with. A typical question might be '能谈谈你过去的工作经历吗？' (Can you talk about your past work experience?). It is crucial to distinguish this from asking about specific skills (经验).
Literature, Media, and Biographies: In written Chinese, particularly in literature, journalism, and biographies, 经历 is used to describe the sweeping arcs of a person's life or the historical trajectory of a place or organization. Biographies are essentially detailed accounts of a person's 生平经历 (life experiences). News articles might describe how a city 经历了地震 (experienced an earthquake) or how a company 经历了重组 (underwent restructuring). The word lends a sense of gravity and historical weight to the narrative.

To give you a better sense of how 经历 sounds in these various contexts, here are some typical sentences you might hear or read. These examples capture the diverse applications of the word, from the mundane to the profound.

在面试中，他详细描述了自己的海外求学经历。

这部电影讲述了主角经历重重磨难最终成功的故事。

听了老爷爷的抗战经历，我们都非常感动。

你没有经历过，所以你不会懂。

公司在过去的一年里经历了飞速的发展。

As you continue to learn Chinese, you will find that 经历 is an indispensable tool for understanding the lives and histories of the people you interact with. It is a word that invites empathy, curiosity, and connection. Whether you are reading a historical novel, watching a documentary, or simply chatting with a friend over tea, 经历 will be there, helping to articulate the complex tapestry of human existence. Keep your ears open for it, and you will soon appreciate its profound resonance in the Chinese language.

When learning the word 经历 (jīnglì), English speakers frequently encounter a few specific stumbling blocks. Because English uses the single word 'experience' to cover a wide range of meanings—from the events we live through to the skills we acquire—it is easy to misuse 经历 by applying it too broadly in Chinese. Understanding these common mistakes is crucial for sounding natural and precise. Let us delve into the most frequent errors learners make and how to correct them, ensuring your usage of 经历 is accurate and contextually appropriate.

Confusing 经历 with 经验 (jīngyàn): This is by far the most common mistake. In English, you might say, 'I have a lot of experience in programming.' A learner might translate this directly as '我在编程方面有很多经历.' This sounds unnatural to a native speaker because 经历 refers to the events you lived through, not the practical skills or knowledge you gained. The correct word here is 经验. You should say, '我在编程方面有很多经验.' Use 经历 for the story (e.g., 'My experience traveling in China was amazing'), and 经验 for the skill (e.g., 'I need someone with teaching experience').
Using 经历 for Brief, Trivial Actions: Another mistake is using 经历 for very short, mundane, or trivial actions. For instance, saying '我经历了一顿午餐' (I experienced a lunch) sounds overly dramatic and incorrect. 经历 implies a process, a duration, or a significant event. For simple actions, you would just use the verb itself (e.g., '我吃了一顿午餐'). If you want to say you 'experienced' something brief like a new flavor or a quick ride, the word 体验 (tǐyàn) is often more appropriate, as it focuses on the personal feeling or sensation of trying something.
Incorrect Measure Words: Learners sometimes use the generic measure word 个 (gè) with 经历, saying '一个经历'. While not entirely incomprehensible, it is less precise and less natural than using the standard measure words 次 (cì) for a single instance or event, and 段 (duàn) for a period of time. Saying '一次难忘的经历' (an unforgettable experience) or '一段痛苦的经历' (a painful period of experience) demonstrates a higher level of proficiency.

To solidify your understanding of these distinctions, let us look at some examples of incorrect usage followed by the correct phrasing. Analyzing these errors will help you avoid them in your own speech and writing.

Mistake: 他有很多教书的经历。(Intended: He has a lot of teaching experience/skills.)
Correction: 他有很多教书的经验。

Mistake: 我昨天经历了看电影。(Intended: I experienced watching a movie yesterday.)
Correction: 我昨天看了一场电影。

Mistake: 这是一个经历。(Intended: This is an experience.)
Correction: 这是一次经历。

Mistake: 我想经历一下这个新游戏。(Intended: I want to experience this new game.)
Correction: 我想体验一下这个新游戏。

Mistake: 他的工作经历很丰富，所以他能胜任。(Intended: His work skills are rich, so he is competent.)
Correction: 他的工作经验很丰富，所以他能胜任。(Note: 工作经历 refers to his resume history, which is fine, but if emphasizing capability, 经验 is better).

By being mindful of these common pitfalls, you can significantly improve your accuracy and fluency. Remember that Chinese vocabulary often divides concepts that English lumps together. Embracing these distinctions is a key part of advancing your language skills and communicating with greater clarity and nuance. Keep practicing, and soon the difference between 经历, 经验, and 体验 will become second nature.

To truly master 经历 (jīnglì), it is highly beneficial to understand its place within a network of similar words. Chinese is rich in vocabulary related to experiencing, undergoing, and learning from life events. While these words may share overlapping translations in English, they possess distinct nuances, collocations, and contextual preferences in Chinese. By comparing 经历 with its closest synonyms and related terms, you can sharpen your lexical precision and choose the exact word needed to convey your intended meaning. Let us explore the most common alternatives and how they differ from 经历.

经验 (jīngyàn) - Experience (Skills/Knowledge): As discussed previously, 经验 is the most frequently confused word with 经历. While 经历 refers to the events you have lived through (the narrative), 经验 refers to the practical skills, knowledge, or wisdom you have acquired as a result of those events. You can have a terrifying 经历 (experience), but you gain valuable 经验 (experience/skills) from working a job for ten years. 经验 is almost exclusively a noun, whereas 经历 can be a noun or a verb.
体验 (tǐyàn) - To Experience (Sensory/Personal Trial): 体验 focuses on the personal, often sensory or emotional, feeling of trying something, usually for the first time or in a specific context. It is about 'experiencing for oneself' to understand what it is like. For example, you might 体验 a new virtual reality game, 体验 the local culture while traveling, or 体验 life in the countryside. It implies a conscious effort to feel or test something, whereas 经历 is broader and often refers to life events that happen to you, whether you sought them out or not.
阅历 (yuèlì) - Experience (Wisdom/Worldliness): 阅历 is a more literary and profound term. It refers to the depth of experience, wisdom, and worldliness one gains over a long period of time, often through seeing and doing many things. It implies a broad understanding of the world and human nature. An older, wise person is often described as having rich 阅历 (丰富的阅历). It is broader than 经验 (which can be specific to a task) and implies a holistic maturation.
经过 (jīngguò) - To Pass By / Process: 经过 shares the character 经 with 经历. As a verb, it means 'to pass by' or 'to go through' a physical place or a point in time (e.g., 'I passed by the bank'). As a noun, it refers to the 'process' or 'course of events' of a specific incident (e.g., 'Tell me the process of what happened'). It lacks the personal, autobiographical weight of 经历.

Let us look at some examples to see these similar words in action, highlighting their distinct flavors and appropriate contexts.

他虽然年轻，但社会阅历很深。(He is young, but has deep social experience/worldliness.)

欢迎来体验我们的新产品。(Welcome to experience/try out our new product.)

这需要多年的实际操作经验。(This requires years of practical operational experience/skills.)

请你详细说说事情的经过。(Please tell me the detailed process/course of the event.)

那次旅行是我人生中最美好的经历。(That trip was the most beautiful experience/event of my life.)

By understanding these nuances, you elevate your Chinese from merely functional to highly expressive. Choosing the right word demonstrates a deep appreciation for the language's subtleties and allows you to communicate your thoughts with precision and elegance. Keep these distinctions in mind as you read and listen to native materials, and you will soon master the art of expressing 'experience' in all its forms.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 经 (jīng) is also used in words like 经济 (economy) and 经典 (classic). The idea is that these things are foundational, like the warp threads of a fabric. When you 经历 something, you are weaving the threads of your own life's fabric.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dʒɪŋ li/

US /dʒɪŋ li/

JĪNG-lì. The first syllable is a high, flat tone. The second syllable is a falling tone.

Rhymes With

听力 (tīnglì) 精力 (jīnglì) 兵力 (bīnglì) 冰立 (bīnglì) 星历 (xīnglì) 英里 (yīnglǐ - near rhyme) 清理 (qīnglǐ - near rhyme) 行李 (xínglǐ - near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'jing' with a hard English 'j' sound (like 'judge') instead of the softer, palatalized Mandarin 'j'.
Failing to distinguish the first tone (high flat) on 'jing' and the fourth tone (falling) on 'li'.
Confusing the 'l' in 'li' with an 'r' sound.
Pronouncing the 'i' in 'li' like the 'i' in 'lip' instead of the 'ee' in 'see'.
Mixing up the tones with 经理 (jīnglǐ - manager), which is first tone + third tone.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The characters 经 and 历 are common, but recognizing the compound word and distinguishing it from 经验 in context requires intermediate reading skills.

Writing 5/5

Writing the character 历 (lì) can be slightly tricky for beginners due to the inner components. 经 is relatively easy.

Speaking 4/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but remembering to use it instead of 经验 when speaking spontaneously is challenging.

Listening 4/5

Easy to hear, but learners must quickly process whether it's being used as a noun or a verb to understand the sentence structure.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

过 (guò - aspect particle for experience) 了 (le - aspect particle for completion) 次 (cì - measure word for times) 事情 (shìqing - matter/thing) 难忘 (nánwàng - unforgettable)

Learn Next

经验 (jīngyàn - skills/experience) 体验 (tǐyàn - to try/experience) 经过 (jīngguò - process/to pass by) 阅历 (yuèlì - life experience/wisdom) 挫折 (cuòzhé - setback)

Advanced

沧桑 (cāngsāng - vicissitudes of life) 磨砺 (mólì - to temper/discipline) 历练 (lìliàn - practical experience/to temper oneself) 洗礼 (xǐlǐ - baptism/severe test) 坎坷 (kǎnkě - bumpy/rough life journey)

Grammar to Know

Using the aspect particle 过 (guò) to indicate past experience (e.g., 我经历过).

Using the aspect particle 了 (le) to indicate completion of an event (e.g., 经历了变化).

Using measure words 次 (cì) and 段 (duàn) with abstract nouns.

Modifying nouns with adjectives + 的 (e.g., 丰富的经历).

Using 虽然...但是... (Although...but...) to discuss overcoming hardships (e.g., 虽然经历了失败，但是...).

Examples by Level

我昨天去了北京。

I went to Beijing yesterday. (Uses simple past, not 经历)

A1 uses 了 for past events.

他吃过中国菜。

He has eaten Chinese food. (Uses 过 for experience, not the word 经历)

A1 uses 过 to indicate past experience.

这是什么？

What is this?

Basic A1 question.

我喜欢旅行。

I like traveling.

Basic A1 vocabulary.

他是一个老师。

He is a teacher.

Basic A1 sentence structure.

今天天气很好。

The weather is very good today.

Basic A1 description.

我买了一本书。

I bought a book.

A1 uses 了 for completed action.

她去医院了。

She went to the hospital.

A1 simple past action.

去中国是一次很好的经历。

Going to China was a very good experience.

Uses 经历 as a simple noun with 一次.

我没有这样的经历。

I don't have this kind of experience.

Basic negation of the noun 经历.

你经历过这件事吗？

Have you experienced this matter?

Uses 经历 as a verb with 过.

那是一个可怕的经历。

That was a terrible experience.

Uses an adjective to modify 经历.

我想听听你的经历。

I want to hear about your experiences.

Using 经历 as an object.

他的经历很有意思。

His experiences are very interesting.

Describing the noun 经历.

我们经历了很多天雨水。

We experienced many days of rain.

Simple verb usage with a concrete object.

这是一段难忘的经历。

This is an unforgettable experience.

Introducing the measure word 段.

他经历了很多困难才找到这份工作。

He experienced many difficulties before finding this job.

Verb usage with abstract noun 困难 and 才 for delayed outcome.

我的个人经历告诉我，要坚持到底。

My personal experience tells me to persevere to the end.

Noun usage as subject: 个人经历.

面试时，经理问了我的工作经历。

During the interview, the manager asked about my work experience.

Specific collocation: 工作经历 (work history).

这段经历改变了他对生活的看法。

This experience changed his view on life.

Noun usage with measure word 段 and verb 改变.

我们共同经历了那场可怕的地震。

We experienced that terrible earthquake together.

Verb usage with adverb 共同 (together).

虽然经历过失败，但他没有放弃。

Although he experienced failure, he did not give up.

Verb usage in a 虽然...但是... concession structure.

丰富的经历让他变得更加成熟。

Rich experiences made him become more mature.

Collocation: 丰富的经历 (rich experiences).

请你分享一下你在国外的学习经历。

Please share your study experience abroad.

Specific collocation: 学习经历 (study experience).

正是那些痛苦的经历，塑造了他坚韧的性格。

It is exactly those painful experiences that shaped his resilient character.

Advanced noun usage with 正是... (It is exactly...).

这家企业经历了多次重组，才有了今天的规模。

This enterprise underwent multiple restructurings to achieve its current scale.

Verb usage in a corporate/business context.

他将自己一生的传奇经历写成了一本自传。

He wrote his life's legendary experiences into an autobiography.

Complex noun phrase: 一生的传奇经历.

无论经历怎样的风雨，我们都要携手同行。

No matter what hardships we experience, we must walk hand in hand.

Metaphorical verb usage: 经历风雨 (experience wind and rain/hardships).

缺乏社会经历的年轻人，往往容易上当受骗。

Young people lacking social experience are often easily deceived.

Collocation: 社会经历 (social experience).

这段刻骨铭心的经历，他一辈子也忘不了。

This unforgettable, deeply ingrained experience, he will not forget for his whole life.

Advanced adjective modifier: 刻骨铭心 (unforgettable/deeply ingrained).

只有亲身经历过，才能体会到其中的酸甜苦辣。

Only by experiencing it personally can one appreciate the joys and sorrows within.

Verb usage with 亲身 (personally) and idiom 酸甜苦辣.

他的简历上详细列出了他过去十年的职业经历。

His resume detailed his professional experience over the past ten years.

Formal noun usage: 职业经历 (professional experience).

这座古城经历了千百年的岁月沧桑，依然屹立不倒。

This ancient city has experienced thousands of years of vicissitudes and still stands tall.

Literary verb usage with 岁月沧桑 (vicissitudes of time).

在宏大的历史叙事中，个人的经历往往显得微不足道。

In grand historical narratives, personal experiences often appear insignificant.

Abstract noun usage in an academic/analytical context.

他以细腻的笔触，描绘了那一代人共同经历的时代阵痛。

With delicate strokes, he depicted the era's growing pains collectively experienced by that generation.

Complex verb phrase modifying a noun: 共同经历的时代阵痛.

纵观其一生，他所经历的起起落落，堪称一部波澜壮阔的史诗。

Looking throughout his life, the ups and downs he experienced can be called a magnificent epic.

Advanced syntax: 所经历的起起落落 (the ups and downs experienced).

这家百年老店经历了市场的几度洗牌，凭借核心技术存活了下来。

This century-old shop survived several market shake-ups through its core technology.

Business/economic context: 经历市场洗牌 (experience market shake-ups).

心理学家认为，童年时期的创伤经历会对成年后的性格产生深远影响。

Psychologists believe that traumatic experiences during childhood have a profound impact on adult personality.

Scientific/psychological context: 创伤经历 (traumatic experience).

他将那些不堪回首的经历深埋心底，不愿向任何人提及。

He buried those unbearable past experiences deep in his heart, unwilling to mention them to anyone.

Advanced adjective modifier: 不堪回首的 (unbearable to look back on).

每一次经济危机的经历，都促使人类反思并完善现有的金融体系。

Every experience of an economic crisis prompts humanity to reflect on and improve the existing financial system.

Noun usage in a macro-economic analysis context.

历史的巨轮滚滚向前，任何个体所经历的悲欢离合，终将化为尘埃。

The giant wheel of history rolls forward; the joys and sorrows experienced by any individual will ultimately turn to dust.

Highly literary and philosophical usage.

他那饱经风霜的面容，无声地诉说着他所经历的世态炎凉。

His weather-beaten face silently tells of the fickleness of human nature he has experienced.

Poetic usage combining idioms: 饱经风霜 and 世态炎凉.

在这部意识流小说中，主人公的主观经历与客观现实交织在一起，难以剥离。

In this stream-of-consciousness novel, the protagonist's subjective experiences are interwoven with objective reality, difficult to separate.

Literary criticism context: 主观经历 (subjective experience).

民族的集体经历往往沉淀为一种潜意识，深刻地影响着其文化心理的建构。

A nation's collective experience often settles into a subconscious, profoundly influencing the construction of its cultural psychology.

Sociological/anthropological academic context: 集体经历 (collective experience).

他试图用一种超越世俗的眼光，去审视自己所经历的一切劫难与恩赐。

He tried to use a transcendent perspective to examine all the disasters and blessings he had experienced.

Philosophical/spiritual context: 经历的一切劫难与恩赐.

语言的演变本身就是一种历史经历的投射，记录着人类认知的不断拓展。

The evolution of language itself is a projection of historical experience, recording the continuous expansion of human cognition.

Linguistic academic context: 历史经历的投射 (projection of historical experience).

那些在生死边缘游走的经历，赋予了他一种对生命近乎冷酷的达观。

Those experiences of wandering on the edge of life and death endowed him with an almost ruthless philosophical acceptance of life.

Highly nuanced psychological description.

改革开放四十年的历程，是中国人民共同经历的一场波澜壮阔的社会变革。

The forty-year course of Reform and Opening Up is a magnificent social transformation collectively experienced by the Chinese people.

Formal political/historical discourse.

Synonyms

阅历往事经过体会

Antonyms

想象预见

Common Collocations

丰富的经历

难忘的经历

痛苦的经历

工作经历

学习经历

经历困难

经历风雨

经历变化

共同经历

亲身经历

Common Phrases

亲身经历

— Personal experience; something one has experienced oneself.

这不是传说，是我的亲身经历。

人生经历

— Life experience; the events of one's life.

每个人的人生经历都不同。

根据我的经历

— Based on my experience. Used to introduce an opinion or story.

根据我的经历，这家餐厅的菜很好吃。

经历过才知道

— You only know after you've experienced it.

有些事，经历过才知道有多难。

一段经历

— A period of experience; a phase of life.

那是一段让我快速成长的经历。

没有经历过

— Have not experienced.

你没有经历过，所以你不懂。

传奇经历

— Legendary experience; an extraordinary life story.

他的一生充满了传奇经历。

感情经历

— Relationship experience; romantic history.

她不愿意谈论过去的感情经历。

童年经历

— Childhood experience.

童年经历对人的性格影响很大。

经历挫折

— To experience setbacks or failures.

年轻时多经历挫折是件好事。

Often Confused With

经历 vs 经验 (jīngyàn)

经验 is for skills and practical knowledge gained. 经历 is for the story or event itself.

经历 vs 体验 (tǐyàn)

体验 is for the sensory or personal feeling of trying something out. 经历 is for living through life events.

经历 vs 经过 (jīngguò)

经过 as a noun means the process or details of how an event unfolded. 经历 is the broader personal experience.

Idioms & Expressions

"历经沧桑"

— To have experienced the vicissitudes of life; to have been through many changes and hardships.

这位老人历经沧桑，看透了世事。

Formal/Literary

"身经百战"

— To have fought a hundred battles; to have a wealth of experience in a particular field. (Note: often overlaps with 经验, but uses the character 经).

他是一位身经百战的老将军。

Formal/Idiomatic

"饱经风霜"

— To have weathered many storms; to have experienced many hardships in life.

他饱经风霜的脸上刻满了皱纹。

Formal/Literary

"久经考验"

— To have withstood long tests/trials; well-tested.

我们的友谊是久经考验的。

Formal

"不经一事，不长一智"

— You can't gain knowledge without practical experience; wisdom comes from experience.

俗话说，不经一事，不长一智，这次失败也算是个教训。

Proverb/Colloquial

"历历在目"

— Vivid in one's mind; as if it were right before one's eyes. (Uses the character 历).

那天的情景至今依然历历在目。

Formal/Idiomatic

"漫长经历"

— A long and drawn-out experience. (Not a strict 4-character idiom, but a common fixed phrase).

这是一段漫长而痛苦的经历。

Neutral

"九死一生"

— A narrow escape from death; to survive a highly dangerous experience.

在那场灾难中，他是九死一生才活下来的。

Idiomatic

"酸甜苦辣"

— Sour, sweet, bitter, spicy; the joys and sorrows of life. Often paired with 经历.

他经历了人生的酸甜苦辣。

Idiomatic

"千辛万苦"

— Untold hardships; innumerable trials. Often what one 经历s.

他们经历了千辛万苦才到达山顶。

Idiomatic

Easily Confused

经历 vs 经验

Both translate to 'experience' in English.

经验 is a noun for skills/knowledge (e.g., teaching experience). 经历 is a noun/verb for life events/stories (e.g., travel experience).

他有丰富的教学经验，也有丰富的海外经历。

经历 vs 体验

Both involve doing something and feeling it.

体验 focuses on the subjective feeling of trying something (often short-term). 经历 focuses on the objective fact of having lived through something (often long-term or significant).

我想体验一下这款新游戏。vs 我经历过那场战争。

经历 vs 阅历

Both relate to life history.

阅历 is a formal noun referring to the wisdom and deep understanding gained from a lifetime of experiences. 经历 is just the events themselves.

他年纪轻轻，但阅历很深。

经历 vs 经过

Both share the character 经 and relate to events.

经过 (noun) is the step-by-step process of an incident. 经历 is the personal involvement in the event.

警察问他事情的经过。

经历 vs 历经

Same characters, reversed order.

历经 is strictly a formal verb meaning 'to have experienced (many things)'. 经历 is both a noun and a verb, and more common in daily speech.

这座城市历经战火。

Sentence Patterns

[Subject] + 经历 + 过 + [Noun]

我经历过这种事。

这是 + 一次/一段 + [Adjective] + 的 + 经历

这是一次难忘的经历。

[Subject] + 经历 + 了 + 很多 + [Noun]

他经历了很多困难。

根据 + 我的 + 个人经历，...

根据我的个人经历，学习外语需要耐心。

正是 + [Adjective] + 的经历，让 + [Subject] + [Verb Phrase]

正是那些痛苦的经历，让他变得坚强。

只有 + 亲身经历过，才能 + [Verb Phrase]

只有亲身经历过，才能体会到父母的辛苦。

[Subject] + 所经历的 + [Noun]，...

他所经历的挫折，常人难以想象。

无论 + 经历 + 怎样的 + [Noun]，[Subject] + 都 + [Verb Phrase]

无论经历怎样的风雨，我们都不退缩。

Word Family

经验 (jīngyàn - experience/skills)

经过 (jīngguò - process/to pass by)

经济 (jīngjì - economy)

历史 (lìshǐ - history)

日历 (rìlì - calendar)

How to Use It

frequency

Very High (Top 1000 words)

Common Mistakes

我有三年的编程经历。 → 我有三年的编程经验。
When talking about years of professional practice or skills acquired, you must use 经验 (jīngyàn). 经历 refers to the events themselves, not the proficiency gained.
我昨天经历了一个苹果。 → 我昨天吃了一个苹果。
经历 cannot be used for trivial, everyday actions like eating an apple. It is reserved for significant events, periods of time, or hardships.
这是一个经历。 → 这是一次经历。 (or 这是一段经历。)
The generic measure word 个 (gè) is rarely used with 经历. Use 次 (cì) for a single event, or 段 (duàn) for a period of time.
我想经历一下这个过山车。 → 我想体验一下这个过山车。
For trying out an activity, a ride, or a sensory experience, 体验 (tǐyàn) is the correct word. 经历 implies a life event or a longer process.
他有很多经历，所以他会修电脑。 → 他有很多经验，所以他会修电脑。
Again, confusing the two 'experiences'. Knowing how to fix a computer is a skill (经验). Having traveled to 50 countries is a 经历.

Tips

Noun vs. Verb

Always double-check if you need a noun or a verb. If you need a noun, remember to use measure words like 次 or 段. If you need a verb, remember your aspect particles 了 or 过.

The Golden Rule: 经历 vs 经验

Write this on a sticky note: 经历 = Story/Event. 经验 = Skill/Knowledge. Never mix them up on a resume or in a job interview!

Pair with Adjectives

经历 loves adjectives. Don't leave it naked! Always try to add 难忘的 (unforgettable), 痛苦的 (painful), or 丰富的 (rich) to make your Chinese sound more native.

Storytelling Hook

Start your stories with '我跟你分享一次我的亲身经历...' (Let me share a personal experience of mine with you...). It immediately grabs the listener's attention.

Respecting Elders

When speaking to older Chinese people, asking '您年轻时有什么特别的经历吗？' (Do you have any special experiences from when you were young?) is a highly respectful and engaging conversation starter.

Resume Vocabulary

On your Chinese resume, the section for your past jobs should be titled 工作经历 (Work Experience), and your education should be 学习经历 (Educational Background).

Level Up with Idioms

To sound advanced, learn the phrase 历经沧桑 (lìjīng cāngsāng). Use it to describe an old building, an old tree, or a very wise, weathered person.

体验 for the Senses

If you are talking about VR, tasting a new food, or trying a hotel, use 体验 (tǐyàn), not 经历. 经历 is too heavy for a quick sensory activity.

Catching the Context

When listening to the news, if you hear a company or country 经历了 something, it usually means they went through a major reform, crisis, or development.

The Rainbow Quote

Memorize '不经历风雨，怎么见彩虹' (No wind and rain, no rainbow). It's the perfect encouraging phrase to say to a Chinese friend who is going through a tough time.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a JINGle (经) playing while you LEap (历) over hurdles. You are EXPERIENCING a challenging obstacle course. The JINGle plays throughout your entire EXPERIENCE.

Visual Association

Visualize a timeline of your life. Each major event (a graduation, a trip, a difficult time) is a glowing dot on this line. The act of moving along this line and collecting these dots is your 经历.

Word Web

经历 -> 经 (pass through) -> 历 (history/time) -> 难忘的 (unforgettable) -> 丰富的 (rich) -> 困难 (difficulties) -> 经验 (skills - contrast) -> 体验 (try out - contrast)

Challenge

Think of three major events in your life. Write one sentence for each using 经历 as a noun (e.g., 那是一次...的经历) and one sentence using it as a verb (e.g., 我经历了...).

Word Origin

The word 经历 is composed of two characters: 经 (jīng) and 历 (lì). 经 originally referred to the warp threads in weaving, representing a continuous line or path. Over time, it evolved to mean 'to pass through,' 'to regulate,' or 'classic texts.' 历 originally depicted footprints under a cliff, meaning 'to pass through time,' 'history,' or 'calendar.' Combined, they literally mean 'to pass through and experience over time.'

Original meaning: To pass through time and events; the path one has walked.

Sino-Tibetan

Cultural Context

When asking about someone's 经历, be mindful that it might bring up traumatic past events, especially for older generations who lived through difficult historical periods in China. Use empathy and let them guide the depth of the conversation.

English speakers tend to use 'experience' for everything. We say 'I have experience in sales' and 'That was a crazy experience.' In Chinese, you MUST split these concepts. Failing to do so is the #1 giveaway of a foreign speaker.

The song 《经历》 by various artists, often exploring themes of growing up and facing life's hardships. The famous saying '不经历风雨，怎么见彩虹' (How can you see a rainbow without experiencing wind and rain?), popularized by the song 《真心英雄》 (True Hero). Countless autobiographies titled with variations of 《我的经历》 (My Experiences).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Interviews

工作经历
学习经历
项目经历
丰富的经历

Storytelling/Anecdotes

亲身经历
难忘的经历
神奇的经历
那次经历

Discussing Hardships

Personal Growth

人生经历
经历改变了我
成长的经历
宝贵的经历

Historical/Societal Changes

历史经历
经历变革
共同经历
时代经历

Conversation Starters

"你人生中最难忘的一次经历是什么？ (What is the most unforgettable experience in your life?)"

"能跟我分享一段你觉得很有趣的旅行经历吗？ (Can you share a travel experience you found very interesting?)"

"你觉得过去的经历对你现在的性格有什么影响？ (How do you think your past experiences have influenced your current personality?)"

"在你的工作经历中，遇到过最大的困难是什么？ (In your work experience, what is the biggest difficulty you have encountered?)"

"你有没有经历过什么让你彻底改变想法的事情？ (Have you ever experienced something that completely changed your mind?)"

Journal Prompts

Write about a '难忘的经历' (unforgettable experience) from your childhood.

Describe a time when you '经历了困难' (experienced difficulties) and how you overcame them.

Compare your '学习经历' (educational experience) with that of your parents.

Write a fictional story about a character who has a '神奇的经历' (magical experience).

Reflect on how your '经历' (experiences) over the past year have changed you.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No. You must use 经验 (jīngyàn) for professional skills and qualifications. You would say '我有五年的营销经验'. If you use 经历, it sounds like you are just telling a story about being in marketing, not that you have the skills.

一次经历 (one time experience) refers to a single, specific event, like a car crash or a memorable vacation. 一段经历 (a period of experience) refers to a phase of life or a prolonged event, like your four years in college or a long period of illness.

Not at all! While it is often used with words like 困难 (difficulties) or 痛苦 (pain), it is equally common with positive words like 难忘 (unforgettable), 奇妙 (wonderful), or 丰富 (rich). It is a neutral word that takes on the emotion of its modifiers.

No, 经历 is strictly a noun or a verb. If you want to describe someone as 'experienced', you would say they have 丰富的经验 (rich skills) or 丰富的经历 (rich life events), or use a word like 老练 (seasoned).

The most common and natural way to say 'personal experience' is 亲身经历 (qīnshēn jīnglì). You can also say 个人经历 (gèrén jīnglì), which is slightly more formal and often used in contexts like interviews or essays.

经历风雨 (jīnglì fēngyǔ) literally means 'to experience wind and rain'. Metaphorically, it is a very common idiom meaning to go through hardships, trials, or tough times in life.

No, that sounds very strange in Chinese. You don't 'experience' a book in the sense of living through it. You would say 我读了一本书 (I read a book). If the book profoundly affected you, you might say 读这本书是一次难忘的经历 (Reading this book was an unforgettable experience).

In Chinese culture, understanding someone's background and what they have lived through is a key way to build trust and rapport. It shows interest in you as a whole person, not just your current status.

历史 (lìshǐ) means 'history' in a broad, objective sense (like the history of a country). 经历 is personal history or personal experiences. However, a country can 经历 (verb) historical events.

No. You use 过 (guò) when you want to emphasize that you *have* experienced something at some point in the past (我经历过). You use 了 (le) when you are simply stating that the action was completed (他经历了变化). You use neither when it's a noun or a general statement.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about an unforgettable travel experience you had. Use the phrase '难忘的经历'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.