Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "before" with 之前 (zhīqián) as a noun

    HSK 3
    Sequence & Order
    Time Expressions

    Structure

    Event/Time + 之前, Clause

    Explanation

    之前 means "before" and is placed after a time expression or event to indicate what precedes it. It functions as a more formal alternative to 以前 and is used in both written and spoken Chinese. For example, 出发之前 means "before departing."

    Examples

    • 出发之前，请检查一下你的行李。

      chūfā zhī qián, qǐng jiǎnchá yīxià nǐ de xínglǐ.

      Before setting off, please check your luggage.

    • 睡觉之前，他习惯看半小时的书。

      shuìjiào zhī qián, tā xíguàn kàn bàn xiǎoshí de shū.

      Before going to bed, he has a habit of reading for half an hour.

    • 做决定之前，你应该多听听别人的意见。

      zuò juédìng zhī qián, nǐ yīnggāi duō tīngtīng biérén de yìjiàn.

      Before making a decision, you should listen more to other people's opinions.

    Similar Grammar

    Often Confused With

    Expressing "before" with 之前 (zhīqián) as a noun | Chinese Grammar