When we talk about years in Chinese, it's quite straightforward.
We have 今年 (jīn nián) for 'this year', 去年 (qù nián) for 'last year', and 明年 (míng nián) for 'next year'.
Now, to go back even further, we use 前年 (qián nián) which means 'the year before last'.
It's super useful for talking about past events.
When talking about time in Chinese, you'll often hear specific words for past and future years. One useful word to know is 前年 (qiánnián), which means 'the year before last'.
Think of it as 'the year before last year'. This is a common and practical word for everyday conversation.
For example, if this year is 2024, then 去年 (qùnián) is 2023, and 前年 (qiánnián) is 2022. It helps you be precise when discussing events that happened a little while ago.
When talking about time in Chinese, you'll often hear people use specific words for years relative to the current one. 前年 (qiánnián) is a great example of this, meaning 'the year before last'.
It's straightforward and commonly used, so it's really helpful to know. Just like in English where we say 'the year before last' instead of 'two years ago' in certain contexts, Chinese uses 前年 to specify that exact time.
It’s very practical when you want to refer to events that happened a bit further back in time without having to calculate a specific year.
When talking about time in Chinese, you'll notice a pattern: words indicating 'last' often use 上 (shàng), and words indicating 'next' often use 下 (xià). For example, 去年 (qùnián) means 'last year' and 明年 (míngnián) means 'next year'.
However, for 'the year before last' and 'the year after next', the pattern shifts slightly. Instead of a direct equivalent of 'before last' or 'after next', Chinese uses 前 (qián) for 'before' and 后 (hòu) for 'after'. So, we have 前年 (qiánnián) for 'the year before last' and 后年 (hòunián) for 'the year after next'.
This is a handy distinction to remember as you expand your vocabulary beyond basic time expressions. It demonstrates how Chinese often builds on simpler concepts to create more complex meanings.
Using precise time markers like 前年 (qiánnián), meaning 'the year before last', is crucial for clear and accurate communication in Chinese. Unlike more general terms, 前年 specifically refers to the year two years prior to the current year, providing an unambiguous temporal reference. Mastering such specific time vocabulary allows for a more sophisticated and nuanced expression of events and their chronology. This not only enhances comprehension for the listener but also demonstrates a higher level of linguistic precision on the part of the speaker. Therefore, integrating terms like 前年 into your active vocabulary is a significant step towards achieving fluency and accuracy in Chinese.
前年 in 30 Seconds
- 前年 means 'the year before last'.
- It refers to two years ago.
- Useful for talking about past events.
§ What does 前年 mean?
Let's get straight to it. In Chinese, 前年 (qiánnián) means 'the year before last'. It's a straightforward word that refers to the year two years ago from the current year. Simple as that. You'll hear and use it a lot when talking about past events, memories, or setting a timeframe for something that happened.
- DEFINITION
- The year before last.
Think of it like this: if this year is 2023, then 前年 would be 2021. It's a precise way to indicate a specific point in the past, making your conversations clear and accurate. You won't use it to mean 'a few years ago' generally; it's always specifically two years back.
§ When do people use 前年?
People use 前年 whenever they need to refer to the year before last. It's common in everyday conversations, storytelling, and even in more formal contexts when discussing timelines. Here are some common situations where you'd hear or use it:
Recalling past events: This is probably the most frequent use. If you're talking about something that happened two years ago, 前年 is the word you need. For example, if you're reminiscing with a friend about a trip you took.
我们前年去过北京。
This translates to 'We went to Beijing the year before last.' (We, year before last, went, Beijing.)
Giving specific dates or durations: While 前年 doesn't give an exact date, it sets a clear temporal boundary. You might use it to talk about when you started a new job or finished a project.
我前年开始学习中文。
Meaning: 'I started learning Chinese the year before last.' (I, year before last, started, learn, Chinese.)
Comparing with other time expressions: 前年 often appears alongside other time words like 去年 (qùnián - last year), 去年 (jīnnián - this year), and 明年 (míngnián - next year) to create a clear sequence of events.
前年下雪很多，去年也下，今年很少。
This means: 'It snowed a lot the year before last, last year too, but very little this year.' (Year before last, snowed, a lot; last year, also, snowed; this year, very little.)
It's important to understand that 前年 is always relative to 'now'. So, its specific calendar year meaning changes depending on when you are speaking. This is why knowing the current year is crucial when you hear someone use it.
Mastering words like 前年 is key to sounding natural in Chinese. It shows you can precisely locate events in time, which is fundamental for good communication. Practice using it in sentences, and you'll find it becomes second nature very quickly.
§ Basic Sentence Structure with 前年
The word 前年 (qiánnián), meaning “the year before last,” is a straightforward time word in Chinese. You can slot it into sentences much like you would “last year” or “next year” in English. It usually goes at the beginning of a sentence, or right after the subject. Let’s look at some basic examples.
前年我去了北京。
Translation hint: The year before last, I went to Beijing.
我们前年认识的。
Translation hint: We met the year before last.
§ Expressing Duration with 前年
While 前年 itself means “the year before last,” you can also use it to talk about something that happened *for* the year before last, or something that *started* the year before last. This is usually done by adding other time expressions or verbs that indicate duration.
- How to use it:
- To indicate an action that occurred *in* the year before last, simply place 前年 before the verb or at the beginning of the sentence.
前年他大学毕业了。
Translation hint: He graduated from university the year before last.
- Actions that started and continue:
- If an action started in the year before last and continues until now, you can use the structure: Subject + 前年 + Verb + 了 (le) + Duration.
她前年开始学中文，到现在已经两年了。
Translation hint: She started learning Chinese the year before last, and it’s been two years now.
§ Contrast with Other Time Words
It’s helpful to see 前年 in context with other common Chinese time words. This helps solidify your understanding of its specific meaning.
去年 (qùnián): last year
去年我去了上海。
Translation hint: Last year I went to Shanghai.
今年 (jīnnián): this year
今年我有很多计划。
Translation hint: This year I have many plans.
明年 (míngnián): next year
明年我想去旅游。
Translation hint: Next year I want to travel.
As you can see, 前年 (qiánnián) fits neatly into this pattern of time words. It’s always two years before the current year. Keep practicing these time words together, and you’ll master them quickly.
§ Understanding 前年 (qiánnián)
Let's break down 前年 (qiánnián). It means 'the year before last'. It's a straightforward term, but it's important to understand how it fits into Chinese time expressions.
- DEFINITION
- The year before last.
Think of it as 'previous year' (去年, qùnián) plus one more year back. It's a very common way to refer to this specific past year. You'll hear and use it a lot.
§ Examples of 前年 (qiánnián) in Sentences
Here are some practical examples to show you how to use 前年 (qiánnián) correctly.
我前年去了北京。
Translation hint: I went to Beijing the year before last.
前年的夏天很热。
Translation hint: The summer of the year before last was very hot.
他前年开始学习中文。
Translation hint: He started learning Chinese the year before last.
§ Similar Words and When to Use Them
You might be wondering about other words that express past years. Here’s how 前年 (qiánnián) fits in with its relatives:
去年 (qùnián): This means 'last year'. This is the most direct and common way to refer to the year immediately preceding the current one.
我去年毕业了。
Translation hint: I graduated last year.
大前年 (dàqiánnián): This means 'three years ago' or 'the year before the year before last'. This is less common than 前年 but useful if you need to go even further back.
他大前年搬到上海。
Translation hint: He moved to Shanghai three years ago.
N 年前 (N nián qián): This is a more general way to say 'N years ago', where N is a number. This is flexible and can be used for any number of years in the past.
我们五年前见过。
Translation hint: We met five years ago.
So, while you have options, 前年 is the dedicated term for 'the year before last'. Use it directly. Don't overthink it, just remember its place in the sequence of time words.
How Formal Is It?
"您前年来过北京吗？(Have you been to Beijing the year before last?)"
"我前年毕业的。(I graduated the year before last.)"
"我们前年见过。(We met the year before last.)"
"小明前年去了动物园。(Xiao Ming went to the zoo the year before last.)"
"这事儿都前年的了，还提它干嘛？(This thing is from the year before last, why bring it up?)"
Fun Fact
This straightforward construction is common in Chinese for temporal expressions. For instance, '后年' (hòunián) similarly means 'the year after next', using '后' (hòu, 'after').
Pronunciation Guide
- Confusing it with 'last year' (去年 - qùnián) or 'next year' (明年 - míngnián).
Grammar to Know
Time words indicating 'before' often use '前'.
大前年 (three years ago), 前天 (the day before yesterday), 前个月 (the month before last)
Similar to 'last year' (去年), 'the year before last' (前年) is a common time phrase.
我前年去了中国。(I went to China the year before last.)
When discussing dates or durations, '前年' can be used as a standalone time word at the beginning or end of a sentence.
前年，我开始学习中文。(The year before last, I started learning Chinese.)
It directly precedes verbs or verb phrases to indicate when an action occurred.
他前年搬到了北京。(He moved to Beijing the year before last.)
Unlike 'last year' (去年), which literally means 'past year', '前年' implies 'the year before the current one or the one just mentioned'.
我们去年没有去旅行，前年去了。(We didn't travel last year; we traveled the year before last.)
Examples by Level
我前年去了中国。
I went to China the year before last.
他前年买了这辆车。
He bought this car the year before last.
我们前年认识的。
We met the year before last.
这个房子是前年建的。
This house was built the year before last.
前年我还在上大学。
The year before last, I was still in university.
她前年结婚了。
She got married the year before last.
前年他搬到了北京。
He moved to Beijing the year before last.
我们前年一起旅行过。
We traveled together the year before last.
我前年在北京学习中文。
I studied Chinese in Beijing the year before last.
他前年搬到了上海。
He moved to Shanghai the year before last.
我们前年见过一次面。
We met once the year before last.
这部电影是前年上映的。
This movie was released the year before last.
前年圣诞节我们去了国外旅行。
The year before last, we traveled abroad for Christmas.
前年我通过了HSK五级考试。
I passed HSK Level 5 the year before last.
这家公司是前年成立的。
This company was established the year before last.
我的朋友前年结婚了。
My friend got married the year before last.
我前年搬到了上海，这座城市真的很有活力。
I moved to Shanghai the year before last, and this city is really vibrant.
前年我们去了日本旅行，那是一次非常难忘的经历。
The year before last we traveled to Japan, that was a very unforgettable experience.
他前年大学毕业，现在在一家大型科技公司工作。
He graduated from university the year before last, and now works at a large tech company.
这家餐厅前年才开业，但现在已经非常受欢迎了。
This restaurant only opened the year before last, but now it's already very popular.
我前年开始学习汉语，感觉进步很快。
I started learning Chinese the year before last, and I feel like I'm making fast progress.
公司前年推出了新产品，市场反响非常好。
The company launched a new product the year before last, and the market response was very good.
前年的冬天特别冷，下了好几场大雪。
The winter of the year before last was particularly cold, and there were several heavy snowfalls.
前年我做了一个重要的决定，现在看来是正确的。
I made an important decision the year before last, and it seems to be correct now.
前年我们去了北京，那是段难忘的经历。
The year before last, we went to Beijing. It was an unforgettable experience.
你还记得前年我们一起庆祝圣诞节的情景吗？
Do you still remember how we celebrated Christmas together the year before last?
前年他搬到了国外，我们就很少见面了。
He moved abroad the year before last, and we've rarely seen each other since.
这家店前年开业的，生意一直很好。
This store opened the year before last, and business has been good all along.
前年我通过了普通话水平测试，拿到了二级甲等证书。
The year before last, I passed the Mandarin proficiency test and got a Level 2, Grade A certificate.
这部电影是前年上映的，当时引起了很大的轰动。
This movie was released the year before last and caused quite a stir at the time.
前年我开始学习中文，现在已经能进行简单的对话了。
I started learning Chinese the year before last, and now I can have simple conversations.
政府前年出台了一项新政策，旨在改善环境。
The government introduced a new policy the year before last, aiming to improve the environment.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
我前年去了中国。
I went to China the year before last.
他前年搬到了北京。
He moved to Beijing the year before last.
我们前年见过一次。
We met once the year before last.
前年夏天非常热。
The summer before last was very hot.
我的朋友前年结婚了。
My friend got married the year before last.
前年我还在上大学。
The year before last I was still in college.
这个电影是前年上映的。
This movie was released the year before last.
前年我们去海边度假了。
The year before last we went on vacation to the beach.
你前年去了哪里？
Where did you go the year before last?
我前年买的这本书。
I bought this book the year before last.
Often Confused With
This is the direct English translation of '前年'.
This is a common way English speakers refer to the same time period as '前年'.
Another way to express '前年' in English, emphasizing the 'two years' aspect.
Grammar Patterns
Idioms & Expressions
"前年今天"
this day the year before last
前年今天我们去了北京。 (This day the year before last, we went to Beijing.)
neutral"前年夏天"
the summer before last
前年夏天天气很热。 (The summer before last, the weather was very hot.)
neutral"前年冬天"
the winter before last
前年冬天下了大雪。 (The winter before last, it snowed heavily.)
neutral"前年这个时候"
around this time the year before last
前年这个时候我还在上大学。 (Around this time the year before last, I was still in university.)
neutral"前年发生的"
something that happened the year before last
这是前年发生的事情。 (This is something that happened the year before last.)
neutral"前年毕业"
graduated the year before last
他前年毕业了。 (He graduated the year before last.)
neutral"前年去了"
went the year before last
我前年去了法国。 (I went to France the year before last.)
neutral"从前年开始"
starting from the year before last
从前年开始，我就住在这里。 (I've been living here since the year before last.)
neutral"比前年好"
better than the year before last
今年的收成比前年好。 (This year's harvest is better than the year before last.)
neutral"前年以来"
since the year before last
前年以来，变化很大。 (There have been many changes since the year before last.)
neutralEasily Confused
Often confused with '前年' due to its proximity in time.
'去年' means 'last year', referring to the year immediately preceding the current one.
我去年去了中国。 (I went to China last year.)
Another common time word, easily mixed up with other years.
'明年' means 'next year', referring to the year immediately following the current one.
你明年想去哪里？ (Where do you want to go next year?)
This word also refers to a year in the future, similar in structure to '前年'.
'后年' means 'the year after next', referring to the year two years after the current one.
我们后年再见面。 (We'll meet again the year after next.)
This is another phrase for a year in the past, similar to '前年', but less common.
'大前年' means 'three years ago', referring to the year three years before the current one. While '前年' is standard for 'the year before last', '大前年' is sometimes used for the year before '前年'.
他大前年毕业了。 (He graduated three years ago.)
This word also refers to past years, making it easy to conflate with specific past years.
'往年' means 'in former years' or 'in previous years'. It refers to an unspecified past, not a specific year like '前年'.
往年这个时候，天气很冷。 (Around this time in previous years, the weather was very cold.)
Sentence Patterns
Subj. + Verb + 前年 + (Object).
我 前年 去了 北京。 (I went to Beijing the year before last.)
前年 + Verb + (Object) + (Subj.).
前年 下了 很大的 雪。 (It snowed a lot the year before last.)
Subj. + 是 + 前年 + Verb + 的 + Object.
这辆车 是 我 前年 买 的。 (This car was bought by me the year before last.)
Verb + 了 + Object + (在) + 前年.
他们 结婚 了 在 前年。 (They got married the year before last.)
前年 + 的 + Noun.
前年 的 计划 成功 了。 (Last year's plan succeeded.)
Word Family
Nouns
Tips
Basic Usage of 前年
前年 (qiánnián) directly translates to 'the year before last'. It's a straightforward time word. You'll hear it a lot in daily conversation.
Combining with other time words
Like 去年 (qùnián) 'last year' and 明年 (míngnián) 'next year', 前年 is often used at the beginning of a sentence or right after the subject. For example, 我前年去了中国。 (Wǒ qiánnián qùle Zhōngguó.) means 'I went to China the year before last.'
Distinguishing from 去年
Don't confuse 前年 with 去年 (qùnián), which means 'last year'. 前年 is always two years ago from the current year, while 去年 is just one year ago. It's a common mistake for beginners.
Using 前年 in questions
You can use 前年 to ask about events that happened two years ago. For instance, 你前年做了什么？ (Nǐ qiánnián zuòle shénme?) means 'What did you do the year before last?'
No need for additional markers
Unlike English where you might say 'in the year before last', in Chinese, 前年 already implies 'in'. You don't need to add prepositions like 在 (zài) before it when it's functioning as a time adverbial.
Context is key
While 前年 is precise, context sometimes helps. If someone is talking about past events, listen for other time indicators to pinpoint exactly when something happened.
Practice with examples
The best way to master 前年 is to use it in sentences. Try describing something you did the year before last. For example: 我前年毕业了。 (Wǒ qiánnián bìyèle.) 'I graduated the year before last.'
Relative to current year
Always remember that 前年 is relative to the current year. If it's 2024, then 前年 refers to 2022. It's a dynamic term.
Common usage in storytelling
Chinese people often use 前年 when reminiscing or telling stories about the past. It's a natural way to indicate a specific point in time.
Avoid direct translation pitfalls
Do not try to directly translate 'the year before last' word-for-word into Chinese. 前年 is the correct and most common way to say it. Avoid creating awkward phrases that might not be understood by native speakers.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of '前' (qián) as 'before' and '年' (nián) as 'year'. So, 'before year' or 'the year before last.'
Visual Association
Imagine a calendar. Point to the current year, then to last year, then to the year *before* last year. That's 前年.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to say what you did or where you went 前年. For example: '我前年_______了。' (Wǒ qiánnián _______ le. - The year before last I _______.)
Word Origin
Composed of '前' (qián, meaning 'before' or 'front') and '年' (nián, meaning 'year').
Original meaning: The combination directly translates to 'before year', signifying the year preceding the last one.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic.Cultural Context
When discussing past events in Chinese, using specific time markers like '前年' adds precision. It's a very common and natural way to refer to something that happened two years ago, and understanding it helps avoid ambiguity when speaking about the past.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Talking about past events or experiences.
- 我前年去中国了。(I went to China the year before last.)
- 前年的夏天很热。(The summer the year before last was very hot.)
- 他前年毕业了。(He graduated the year before last.)
Comparing events across different years.
- 今年比前年更忙。(This year is busier than the year before last.)
- 前年的收成没有去年好。(The harvest the year before last was not as good as last year's.)
- 我们前年认识的。(We met the year before last.)
Scheduling or referring to a specific time in the past.
- 前年的这个时候，我们在旅行。(This time the year before last, we were traveling.)
- 你前年住在哪里？(Where did you live the year before last?)
- 前年的计划是什么？(What was the plan the year before last?)
Recalling memories or milestones.
- 我前年才开始学中文。(I only started learning Chinese the year before last.)
- 那是前年的事了。(That was something from the year before last.)
- 前年的生日派对很棒。(The birthday party the year before last was great.)
Discussing trends or changes over time.
- 前年的经济形势比较好。(The economic situation the year before last was better.)
- 这个地方前年还没有这么多高楼。(This place didn't have so many tall buildings the year before last.)
- 前年的销售额更高。(Sales were higher the year before last.)
Conversation Starters
"你前年去了哪里旅行？(Where did you travel the year before last?)"
"你前年有没有什么难忘的经历？(Did you have any unforgettable experiences the year before last?)"
"你前年最喜欢的一件事是什么？(What was your favorite thing from the year before last?)"
"你的生活和前年相比有什么变化？(How has your life changed compared to the year before last?)"
"你前年做了什么有意思的事情？(What interesting things did you do the year before last?)"
Journal Prompts
回忆一下你前年的生活，写下你记得的五件事。(Recall your life the year before last and write down five things you remember.)
你觉得前年和去年有什么不同？(What differences do you feel between the year before last and last year?)
如果可以回到前年，你最想做的事情是什么？(If you could go back to the year before last, what would you most want to do?)
前年对你来说是一个怎样的年份？写下你的感受。(What kind of year was the year before last for you? Write down your feelings.)
画一幅画或写一首诗来表达你对前年的记忆。(Draw a picture or write a poem to express your memories of the year before last.)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYou say 'the year before last' with the Chinese word 前年 (qiánnián).
Yes, absolutely! 前年 (qiánnián) specifically means 'the year before last,' so it's perfect for discussing events that occurred two years ago.
Yes, 前年 (qiánnián) is a very common and practical word that native speakers use all the time when talking about past events. You'll hear it a lot.
The difference is simple: 前年 (qiánnián) means 'the year before last,' while 去年 (qùnián) means 'last year.' They refer to different time periods.
You can use 前年 (qiánnián) just like 'two years ago' or 'the year before last' in English. For example:
我前年去了中国。 (Wǒ qiánnián qùle Zhōngguó.)
I went to China the year before last.
Not really any fixed 'expressions,' but you'll often hear it combined with other time words, like 前年夏天 (qiánnián xiàtiān) for 'the summer before last' or 前年冬天 (qiánnián dōngtiān) for 'the winter before last.'
No, 前年 (qiánnián) has one clear meaning: 'the year before last.' It's straightforward.
Yes, they are related! 后年 (hòunián) means 'the year after next,' which is the opposite of 前年 (qiánnián) meaning 'the year before last.'
The pronunciation of 前年 (qiánnián) is quite phonetic. 'qián' is like 'chee-an' and 'nián' is like 'nee-en'. The main thing is to get the tones right: both are second tone (rising tone).
While 两年前 (liǎng nián qián) literally means 'two years ago,' 前年 (qiánnián) is specifically 'the year before last.' They can often be used interchangeably, but 前年 is more precise for 'the year before last.'
Test Yourself 144 questions
我___来了中国。(I came to China the year before last.)
The sentence indicates an action that happened two years ago, so '前年' (the year before last) is the correct choice.
他___结婚了。(He got married the year before last.)
'前年' means the year before last, which fits the context of someone getting married two years ago.
我们___去过北京。(We went to Beijing the year before last.)
The sentence describes an event that happened in the past, specifically two years ago, making '前年' the appropriate word.
她___大学毕业。(She graduated from university the year before last.)
To convey that she graduated two years ago, '前年' is the correct term.
这个电影是___上映的。(This movie was released the year before last.)
The sentence talks about a movie that was released two years ago, so '前年' is the accurate word to use.
我___开始学习中文。(I started learning Chinese the year before last.)
To indicate the start of learning Chinese two years ago, '前年' is the correct choice.
Which of these means 'the year before last'?
前年 (qiánnián) specifically means 'the year before last'. 去年 (qùnián) is 'last year', 明年 (míngnián) is 'next year', and 今年 (jīnnián) is 'this year'.
If '去年 (qùnián)' means 'last year', what does '前年 (qiánnián)' mean?
The character '前' (qián) often indicates 'before' or 'previous'. So, 前年 (qiánnián) means the year before the last year.
My birthday is in 2022. If today is 2024, when was '前年' (qiánnián)?
If today is 2024, 'last year' (去年) was 2023. 'The year before last' (前年) was 2022.
前年 (qiánnián) is the same as 'last year'.
No, 前年 (qiánnián) means 'the year before last'. 'Last year' is 去年 (qùnián).
If you say '我前年去了中国' (Wǒ qiánnián qùle Zhōngguó), it means 'I went to China the year before last'.
Yes, '前年' (qiánnián) translates to 'the year before last', so the sentence means 'I went to China the year before last'.
明年 (míngnián) means 'the year before last'.
No, 明年 (míngnián) means 'next year'. 'The year before last' is 前年 (qiánnián).
Listen to the sentence and understand when the speaker went to China.
Listen to the sentence and identify who was busy and when.
Listen to the sentence and figure out when they met.
Read this aloud:
前年我学习汉语。
Focus: qián nián
You said:
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Read this aloud:
她前年搬家了。
Focus: bān jiā
You said:
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Read this aloud:
你前年做什么了？
Focus: zuò shén me
You said:
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Write a sentence in Chinese saying 'The year before last, I went to China.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我去了中国。
How would you say 'He was very busy the year before last' in Chinese?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年他很忙。
Write a short sentence in Chinese about something you did 'the year before last'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我学习汉语。
When did I learn Chinese?
Read this passage:
我前年学习了中文。中文很有趣。
When did I learn Chinese?
The passage says '我前年学习了中文' (I learned Chinese the year before last).
The passage says '我前年学习了中文' (I learned Chinese the year before last).
Where did she live the year before last?
Read this passage:
她前年住在北京。她很喜欢北京。
Where did she live the year before last?
The passage states '她前年住在北京' (She lived in Beijing the year before last).
The passage states '她前年住在北京' (She lived in Beijing the year before last).
When did we meet?
Read this passage:
我们前年认识的。我们是好朋友。
When did we meet?
The sentence '我们前年认识的' means 'We met the year before last'.
The sentence '我们前年认识的' means 'We met the year before last'.
The correct order is 'He was the year before last'. '前年' (qiánnián) means 'the year before last'.
The correct order is 'I came to China the year before last'. '前年' (qiánnián) means 'the year before last'.
The correct order is 'She studied Chinese the year before last'. '前年' (qiánnián) means 'the year before last'.
她___去了北京，现在住在那里。
The sentence indicates she went to Beijing and is now living there, implying she went 'the year before last'.
我们___在法国见过面，你还记得吗？
The question asks if someone remembers meeting, and 'the year before last' makes sense for a past event that might be remembered.
这部电影是___上映的，我觉得很好看。
Movies are often released a while ago, so 'the year before last' fits the context of 'was released'.
他___毕业的，现在已经工作两年了。
If he has been working for two years, he must have graduated 'the year before last'.
我们公司___搬到了这个新地址。
Companies often move and stay at a new address for some time, so 'the year before last' is a suitable timeframe.
你___去过中国吗？
The question is asking about a past experience, and 'the year before last' is a specific past time.
Which of the following means 'the year before last'?
前年 (qiánnián) specifically refers to the year before last. 去年 (qùnián) is last year, 明年 (míngnián) is next year, and 今年 (jīnnián) is this year.
If '去年' means 'last year', what does '前年' mean?
前年 (qiánnián) is literally 'front year', meaning the year before the 'last year'.
My birthday is in _______, so I am excited for it soon. (Choose the word that makes sense)
If you are excited for it soon, your birthday must be in the future. '明年' (míngnián) means next year.
The sentence '我前年去中国了' means 'I went to China last year.'
No, '我前年去中国了' (Wǒ qiánnián qù Zhōngguó le) means 'I went to China the year before last.' '去年' (qùnián) would be last year.
If someone says '我前年毕业了', it means they graduated two years ago.
'前年' (qiánnián) means the year before last, so '我前年毕业了' (Wǒ qiánnián bìyè le) means 'I graduated the year before last,' which is two years ago.
You can use '前年' to talk about something happening in the future.
No, '前年' (qiánnián) is used for past events, specifically the year before last. For future events, you would use words like '明年' (míngnián - next year).
I went to China the year before last.
The year before last he hadn't come here yet.
How old were you the year before last?
Read this aloud:
前年我学了汉语。
Focus: qián nián
You said:
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Read this aloud:
前年我们住在这个城市。
Focus: zhù zài zhè ge chéng shì
You said:
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Read this aloud:
前年发生了很多事情。
Focus: fā shēng le hěn duō shì qíng
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a sentence describing something you did the year before last using '前年'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我去了中国。 (The year before last, I went to China.)
Translate the following sentence into Chinese: "My younger brother started university the year before last."
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我弟弟前年开始上大学了。
Complete the sentence: '我前年_______。' (I _______ the year before last.)
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我前年学习了汉语。
小王是什么时候买的新车？
Read this passage:
小王前年买了一辆新车。他去年搬了家。今年他打算去旅行。
小王是什么时候买的新车？
文章中明确提到小王前年买了一辆新车。
文章中明确提到小王前年买了一辆新车。
说话人前年去了哪里？
Read this passage:
我前年第一次去北京。那里有很多历史建筑。我非常喜欢。
说话人前年去了哪里？
文章中提到“我前年第一次去北京”。
文章中提到“我前年第一次去北京”。
她什么时候开始学习画画的？
Read this passage:
她前年开始学习画画。现在她画得很好。她每个周末都去画画课。
她什么时候开始学习画画的？
短文中提到“她前年开始学习画画”。
短文中提到“她前年开始学习画画”。
她____搬到了上海，现在已经很适应那里的生活了。
The sentence implies a longer period of adaptation, so 'the year before last' fits best.
这部电影是____上映的，到现在我还记得它的精彩情节。
The speaker still remembers the plot, indicating the movie was released some time ago, but not too long ago. 'The year before last' is a good fit.
我们____第一次见面，时间过得真快啊。
The phrase '时间过得真快啊' (time flies so fast) suggests a meeting that happened more than just last year.
这个项目____就开始启动了，预计明年完成。
If the project is expected to be completed next year, it's reasonable that it started 'the year before last' for a larger project.
我的生日派对____办得很成功，来了很多朋友。
A past successful event, and '前年' implies a slightly more distant past than '去年' but still recent enough to recall details.
那家咖啡馆是____开的，现在生意非常好。
For a business to be doing 'very good' now, it would likely have been established a couple of years ago, allowing time to build up clientele.
Choose the correct translation for '前年'.
前年 (qiánnián) literally means 'before year', referring to the year before last.
Which sentence correctly uses '前年'?
The sentence '我前年去中国了' (Wǒ qiánnián qù Zhōngguó le) means 'I went to China the year before last.' This correctly uses '前年' to refer to a past event.
What is the opposite of '前年' (the year before last)?
前年 refers to a past year, while 后年 refers to a future year, making them opposites in terms of time reference.
If someone says '我前年生日', it means their birthday was last year.
No, '我前年生日' means 'My birthday was the year before last', not last year. Last year is 去年 (qùnián).
The sentence '他前年毕业了' means 'He graduated the year before last'.
Yes, '他前年毕业了' (Tā qiánnián bìyè le) correctly translates to 'He graduated the year before last'.
You can use '前年' to talk about an event that will happen in the future.
No, '前年' specifically refers to a past time, 'the year before last'. For future events, you would use terms like 明年 (next year) or 后年 (the year after next).
What year did the speaker go to China?
What happened to the speaker the year before last?
When did they meet?
Read this aloud:
请问你前年做了什么？
Focus: 前年 (qiánnián)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
你前年有没有学中文？
Focus: 有没有 (yǒu méi yǒu)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
前年你的生活有什么变化吗？
Focus: 变化 (biànhuà)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence about something you did the year before last, using '前年'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我去了中国旅行。 (The year before last, I traveled to China.)
Describe a significant event that happened to you '前年'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我大学毕业了，那对我来说是很重要的一年。 (The year before last, I graduated from university, which was a very important year for me.)
Imagine you are talking to a friend. Ask them what they did '前年'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
你前年去了哪里玩？ (Where did you go for fun the year before last?)
小明是哪一年搬家的？
Read this passage:
小明去年搬家了。前年他还在北京工作，住在公司附近。但是，因为工作调动，他不得不搬到上海。现在他在上海生活得很开心。
小明是哪一年搬家的？
文章中明确提到“小明去年搬家了”。 (The passage clearly states 'Xiao Ming moved last year'.)
文章中明确提到“小明去年搬家了”。 (The passage clearly states 'Xiao Ming moved last year'.)
丽丽和她的家人什么时候去了日本？
Read this passage:
丽丽和她的家人前年去了日本旅游。他们在东京看了樱花，还去了大阪品尝了当地美食。去年他们去了韩国，今年计划去泰国。
丽丽和她的家人什么时候去了日本？
文章中写道“丽丽和她的家人前年去了日本旅游”。 (The passage says 'Lili and her family traveled to Japan the year before last'.)
文章中写道“丽丽和她的家人前年去了日本旅游”。 (The passage says 'Lili and her family traveled to Japan the year before last'.)
这家咖啡馆是什么时候重新装修的？
Read this passage:
这家咖啡馆生意一直很好。前年他们重新装修了店面，吸引了更多顾客。去年他们开了一家分店，今年计划再开一家。
这家咖啡馆是什么时候重新装修的？
文章中提到“前年他们重新装修了店面”。 (The passage mentions 'The year before last they redecorated the store'.)
文章中提到“前年他们重新装修了店面”。 (The passage mentions 'The year before last they redecorated the store'.)
This sentence structure emphasizes that the graduation happened the year before last. '是...的' construction is used for emphasis.
'前年' (the year before last) acts as the time adverbial, preceding the verb '搬到' (moved to).
Here, '前年买的' functions as an attributive modifying '车', indicating when the car was bought.
Choose the correct translation: 'I graduated the year before last.'
前年 (qiánnián) means 'the year before last.'
Which sentence correctly uses '前年'?
前年 refers to a past year, so '去过' (have been to) is appropriate. The other options suggest ongoing actions, future events, or incorrect time references.
If '去年' means 'last year', what does '前年' mean?
去年 (qùnián) is last year. 前年 (qiánnián) precedes that, meaning the year before last.
The sentence '我们前年见面了。' means 'We met last year.'
前年 means 'the year before last', not 'last year'.
You can use '前年' to talk about an event that will happen next year.
前年 specifically refers to a past event, the year before last. It cannot be used for future events.
'前年' is a common way to refer to 'two years ago' in Chinese.
While '两年前' also means 'two years ago', '前年' specifically means 'the year before last', which is a common way to express that timeframe.
Write a short paragraph about something significant that happened to you the year before last. Use '前年' in your response.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我去了中国旅行。那是我第一次出国，看到了很多不同的文化和风景，对我来说是一次非常重要的经历。
Describe a memory you have from two years ago, using the word '前年'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我搬到了一个新的城市，认识了很多新朋友。虽然有些挑战，但总体来说那是非常美好的一年。
Imagine you are talking to a friend. Tell them about a goal you achieved '前年'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年我终于通过了汉语水平考试六级。我为此努力了很久，所以非常高兴。
根据这段文字，前年全球经济发生了什么？
Read this passage:
前年，全球经济面临了巨大的挑战。许多公司不得不调整他们的商业策略，以适应新的市场环境。尽管如此，一些新兴产业却在逆境中获得了发展机会。
根据这段文字，前年全球经济发生了什么？
文章中明确提到“前年，全球经济面临了巨大的挑战”。
文章中明确提到“前年，全球经济面临了巨大的挑战”。
小明“前年”在做什么？
Read this passage:
小明去年大学毕业，今年找到了第一份工作。他回想起前年的时候，还在为毕业论文而焦虑，感觉时间过得真快。
小明“前年”在做什么？
文章中提到“他回想起前年的时候，还在为毕业论文而焦虑”。
文章中提到“他回想起前年的时候，还在为毕业论文而焦虑”。
李华是从什么时候开始学习编程的？
Read this passage:
李华前年开始学习编程，去年他开发了一个非常实用的手机应用。今年，他被一家著名的科技公司录用，成为了软件工程师。
李华是从什么时候开始学习编程的？
文章中明确指出“李华前年开始学习编程”。
文章中明确指出“李华前年开始学习编程”。
The correct order is Subject + Time + Verb + Object. '他' (He) is the subject, '前年' (the year before last) is the time, '去了' (went to) is the verb phrase, and '美国' (America) is the object.
This is a common structure to emphasize the time an event happened. '我们' (We) is the subject, '前年' (the year before last) is the time, and '认识的' (it was when we met) emphasizes the time.
The '是...的' structure is used to emphasize the time, place, or manner of an action. '这部电影' (This movie) is the subject, '是前年上映的' (was released the year before last) emphasizes the time of release.
The speaker went to China the year before last.
The company moved to a new office the year before last.
Do you remember when we went hiking together the year before last?
Read this aloud:
请你用“前年”造一个句子。
Focus: qián nián
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
你前年有什么特别的计划或者经历吗？
Focus: qián nián
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
“前年”和“去年”有什么区别？
Focus: qián nián, qù nián
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a significant event or personal achievement that happened the year before last. Explain why it was important to you and what impact it had.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年，我完成了我的硕士学位论文，那对我来说是一个重要的里程碑。我投入了大量的时间和精力，最终取得了成功。这个成就不仅提升了我的专业知识，也让我对自己的能力有了更深的认识，对我的职业发展产生了积极的影响。
Imagine you are talking to a friend about your plans for the next few years. Mention something you started or experienced 'the year before last' that influenced your current goals.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年，我开始学习编程，完全是出于好奇。没想到，那段经历彻底改变了我的职业规划。我现在正努力成为一名软件工程师，并计划在未来几年内开发自己的应用程序。前年的那个决定真的很有意义。
Write a short paragraph about how something from 'the year before last' is still relevant or has a lasting effect on your life today.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年，我参加了一个志愿者项目，帮助当地的社区。虽然项目结束了，但那段经历对我产生了持久的影响。我学会了如何更好地与人沟通，也更理解了奉献的意义。直到现在，我仍然会抽时间参与志愿活动。
根据这段话，关于“前年”的全球经济，哪个说法是正确的？
Read this passage:
前年，全球经济面临前所未有的挑战，许多行业受到冲击。然而，也有一些新兴产业逆势增长，展现出强大的生命力。政府和企业纷纷调整策略，以适应新的市场环境。
根据这段话，关于“前年”的全球经济，哪个说法是正确的？
文章中提到“政府和企业纷纷调整策略，以适应新的市场环境”，直接支持了选项C。选项A、B、D与原文信息不符。
文章中提到“政府和企业纷纷调整策略，以适应新的市场环境”，直接支持了选项C。选项A、B、D与原文信息不符。
李明在“前年”做出了什么决定？
Read this passage:
前年，李明决定辞去稳定的工作，开始创业。他的朋友们对此感到惊讶，因为他的新项目充满了未知。但李明坚信，只有敢于冒险，才能获得真正的成功。经过两年的努力，他的公司已经初具规模。
李明在“前年”做出了什么决定？
文章第一句明确指出“前年，李明决定辞去稳定的工作，开始创业。”
文章第一句明确指出“前年，李明决定辞去稳定的工作，开始创业。”
小王认为“前年”或更久远的历史事件有何特点？
Read this passage:
小王喜欢阅读历史书籍。他发现，虽然许多历史事件发生在“前年”甚至更久远的年代，但它们对后世的影响依然深远。他认为，理解历史是理解现在和预测未来的关键。
小王认为“前年”或更久远的历史事件有何特点？
文章中写道“它们对后世的影响依然深远”，直接对应选项C。
文章中写道“它们对后世的影响依然深远”，直接对应选项C。
___，他们全家移民到了加拿大。
The sentence implies an event that happened in the past, and '前年' (the year before last) fits the context of emigration, which is usually a planned event that happened some time ago.
我们公司在___经历了一次重大的结构调整。
A '重大结构调整' (major structural adjustment) refers to a past event. '前年' (the year before last) is a suitable time frame for such an event.
听说这部电影在___获得了国际大奖。
The phrase '获得了国际大奖' (won an international award) indicates a past achievement. '前年' (the year before last) is a plausible time for such an event to have occurred.
他从___就开始学习中文了，现在说得非常流利。
The sentence states he started learning Chinese and now speaks very fluently, implying a period of learning. '从前年开始' (started from the year before last) provides a good time frame for developing fluency.
这座图书馆在___进行了大规模的翻新工程。
A '大规模的翻新工程' (large-scale renovation project) is a significant past event. '在前年' (in the year before last) clearly indicates when this happened.
___我们去过一次北京，那次旅行给我留下了深刻的印象。
The sentence talks about a past trip and its lasting impression. '前年' (the year before last) specifies the time of this memorable event.
Choose the most appropriate response to '你前年去了哪里？'
The question asks about 'the year before last', so the answer should also refer to '前年'.
Which sentence correctly uses '前年'?
'前年' refers to a specific past year, so it fits with '还没出生' (hadn't been born yet).
If '去年' means 'last year', what does '前年' mean?
'前年' literally translates to 'front year' or 'the year before last', similar to how '去年' is 'last year'.
Statements like '前年' and '去年' refer to future events.
'前年' (the year before last) and '去年' (last year) both refer to past events, not future events.
If someone says '我前年去过中国', it means they visited China two years ago from now.
'前年' means the year before last, so '我前年去过中国' means 'I went to China the year before last'.
The phrase '前年' can be used interchangeably with '去年' without changing the meaning.
'前年' means 'the year before last', while '去年' means 'last year'. They refer to different years.
The speaker went to China the year before last.
The speaker is asking about snow from the year before last.
The project started the year before last.
Read this aloud:
前年你做了什么有意义的事情？
Focus: qián nián
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
前年的春节你是在哪里过的？
Focus: chūn jié
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
前年夏天，我们全家去了海边度假。
Focus: dù jià
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you are describing a significant global event that happened the year before last. Write a short paragraph detailing what happened and its impact.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年，全球爆发了一场前所未有的健康危机，深刻影响了每个人的生活。许多国家不得不实施严格的封锁措施，经济活动也因此受到了巨大冲击。那一年，旅行变得几乎不可能，人们更多地通过线上方式进行交流和工作。尽管挑战重重，但也促使科技加速发展，许多新的工作模式和生活方式应运而生。
Write a diary entry about a personal milestone or achievement you accomplished the year before last. Describe what it was and how it made you feel.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年，我终于完成了我的博士论文答辩，那真是我人生中一个重要的里程碑。我记得答辩那天，我既紧张又兴奋，几个小时的陈述和问答后，当教授们宣布我通过时，我感到前所未有的轻松和自豪。那是多年努力的成果，让我对未来充满了信心。我至今仍清晰地记得那份喜悦。
Describe a major technological advancement or cultural trend that emerged or became prominent the year before last, and explain its significance.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
前年，人工智能技术在多个领域取得了突破性进展，尤其是其在自然语言处理方面的应用变得更加普遍。例如，许多智能助手和翻译软件的功能得到了显著提升，使得跨语言交流更加便捷。这项技术的重要性在于它不仅提高了工作效率，也改变了我们获取信息和互动的方式，对未来的社会发展有着深远的影响。
根据短文，小王在“前年”做了什么决定？
Read this passage:
前年，小王决定辞去高薪工作，开始环球旅行。他的朋友们都对这个决定感到震惊，因为小王一直是一个非常注重稳定和职业发展的人。然而，小王认为，人生不应该只有工作，还有更多未知的精彩等待他去发现。他用一年的时间游历了十几个国家，体验了不同的文化和风土人情。这段经历让他对生活有了全新的认识。
根据短文，小王在“前年”做了什么决定？
文章明确提到“前年，小王决定辞去高薪工作，开始环球旅行。”
文章明确提到“前年，小王决定辞去高薪工作，开始环球旅行。”
文章中提到“前年”发生了什么主要的自然现象？
Read this passage:
前年，全球气候变化带来的极端天气事件频繁发生。许多地区遭受了前所未有的洪水、干旱和热浪。科学家们警告说，如果人类不采取更积极的措施来减少碳排放，未来的情况可能会更加严峻。这些事件不仅造成了巨大的经济损失，也对生态系统造成了不可逆转的破坏。
文章中提到“前年”发生了什么主要的自然现象？
文章指出“前年，全球气候变化带来的极端天气事件频繁发生。”
文章指出“前年，全球气候变化带来的极端天气事件频繁发生。”
根据短文，这部科幻电影在“前年”引起轰动的原因是什么？
Read this passage:
前年，一部关于未来人工智能的科幻电影在全球范围内引起了轰动。电影深入探讨了人工智能伦理和人类与机器共存的可能性，引发了广泛的社会讨论。许多人对电影中描绘的场景感到既兴奋又担忧，因为它让我们重新思考了科技发展的边界和人类的未来。这部电影不仅票房大卖，也获得了多项国际电影奖项。
根据短文，这部科幻电影在“前年”引起轰动的原因是什么？
文章提到“电影深入探讨了人工智能伦理和人类与机器共存的可能性，引发了广泛的社会讨论。”这是引起轰动的主要原因。
文章提到“电影深入探讨了人工智能伦理和人类与机器共存的可能性，引发了广泛的社会讨论。”这是引起轰动的主要原因。
The sentence structure is 'Subject + 在 + Time (前年) + Verb Phrase (搬到 上海) + Particle (了)'.
The correct order is 'Subject + Pronoun + Time (前年) + Verb (去) + Aspect Particle (过) + Object (北京)'.
The correct order is 'Demonstrative + Noun + 是 + Time (前年) + Verb (启动) + Particle (的)'. This emphasizes the time of initiation.
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Perfect score!
Summary
Use 前年 to specify events that happened two years ago.
- 前年 means 'the year before last'.
- It refers to two years ago.
- Useful for talking about past events.
Basic Usage of 前年
前年 (qiánnián) directly translates to 'the year before last'. It's a straightforward time word. You'll hear it a lot in daily conversation.
Combining with other time words
Like 去年 (qùnián) 'last year' and 明年 (míngnián) 'next year', 前年 is often used at the beginning of a sentence or right after the subject. For example, 我前年去了中国。 (Wǒ qiánnián qùle Zhōngguó.) means 'I went to China the year before last.'
Distinguishing from 去年
Don't confuse 前年 with 去年 (qùnián), which means 'last year'. 前年 is always two years ago from the current year, while 去年 is just one year ago. It's a common mistake for beginners.
Using 前年 in questions
You can use 前年 to ask about events that happened two years ago. For instance, 你前年做了什么？ (Nǐ qiánnián zuòle shénme?) means 'What did you do the year before last?'
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More daily_life words
朝九晚五
B2From nine to five; regular working hours.
未免
B2Rather; a bit too; truly (implies something excessive).
废弃
B2To abandon; to discard; to cease to use.
恪守
B2To scrupulously observe; to strictly adhere to.
反常
B2abnormal, unusual
充裕
B2Abundant; ample.
充沛
B2Abundant; plentiful; full of energy.
门禁卡
B2Access card; entry card.
门禁
B2Access control (system).
配件
B2Fittings; accessories; spare parts.
