向来 xiànglái always (previously)
How to remember 向来: 向 towards + 来 come = always (previously).
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How it is used
- Adverb: all along / always have (up to now) - 他向来准时 (tā xiànglái zhǔnshí) he's always been punctual.
- Marks a long-standing, unchanged habit or trait; typically before the verb and often in negatives (向来不 xiànglái bù). Close to 从来 (cónglái) but stresses habitual disposition.