自从 zìcóng since (a time)
since (a time); ever since
How to remember 自从: 自 self + 从 from = since (a time).
Characters
How it is used
- Since (a past starting point) - 自从他走了以后 (zìcóng tā zǒu le yǐhòu) ever since he left; often paired with 以后/以来 to close the frame.
- Marks the beginning of a stretch of time up to now; only for past starting points, not future ones.
- Sits at the head of the clause: 自从…，就… .
Example sentences
- 自从他离开去法国，已经有两个月了。 Zìcóng tā líkāi qù fǎguó, yǐjīng yǒu liǎnggè yuè le.Two months have passed since he left for France.
- 自从手术后，我父亲一直处于良好的状态。 Zìcóng shǒushù hòu, wǒ fùqīn yìzhí chǔyú liánghǎo de zhuàngtài.My father has been in good shape since his operation.
- 自从他不知道该说什么的时候，便一直沉默着。 Zìcóng tā bù zhīdào gāi shuō shénme de shíhòu, biàn yìzhí chénmò zhe.Since he didn't know what to say, he remained silent.