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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'after' in time or position with 后 (hòu)

    Sequence & Order
    Time Expressions

    Structure

    Verb Phrase / Event + 后

    Explanation

    The locational noun 后 (hòu) indicates 'after' in time or 'behind' in space. When used after a verb phrase, it marks the time following the completion of an action, as in 结束生涯后 (after ending one's career). It functions as a postposition rather than a preposition.

    Examples

    • 吃完饭后我们去散步吧。

      Chī wán fàn hòu wǒmen qù sànbù ba.

      Let's go for a walk after eating.

    • 结束生涯后，他成了一名解说员。

      Jiéshù shēngyá hòu, tā chéng le yì míng jiěshuōyuán.

      After ending his career, he became a commentator.

    • 到达目的地后请给我打电话。

      Dàodá mùdìdì hòu qǐng gěi wǒ dǎ diànhuà.

      Please call me after you arrive at the destination.

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