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    Chinese Grammar

    Using 古时候 (gǔshíhou) to express "ancient times"

    Time Expressions

    Structure

    古时候 + Clause

    Explanation

    古时候 (gǔshíhou) means "in ancient times" or "long ago" and is a common time expression used to set the scene in stories, legends, and historical narratives. It functions like "once upon a time" at the beginning of traditional tales.

    Examples

    • 古时候，人们用马来运送货物。

      Gǔ shíhou, rénmen yòng mǎ lái yùnsòng huòwù.

      In ancient times, people used horses to transport goods.

    • 古时候没有电，晚上只能点蜡烛。

      Gǔ shíhou méiyǒu diàn, wǎnshang zhǐ néng diǎn làzhú.

      In ancient times there was no electricity, and at night people could only light candles.

    • 古时候有一个聪明的小姑娘。

      Gǔ shíhou yǒu yī gè cōngmíng de xiǎo gūniang.

      In ancient times, there was a clever little girl.

    Similar Grammar

    Using 古时候 (gǔshíhou) to express "ancient times" | Chinese Grammar