Meanings of 一辈子
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Podcast: 一辈子
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AI Study Notes for 一辈子
一生 (yīshēng) - use 一辈子 (yíbèizi) for emphasis on commitment or duration in a specific context, whereas 一生 (yīshēng) is more general for 'lifetime'.
When using 一辈子, be mindful of the context; it is typically used in informal settings but can also appear in more serious discussions. Common collocations include '爱一辈子' (love for a lifetime) and '工作一辈子' (work for a lifetime). Avoid mixing it with short-term contexts.
As an HSK 5 word, 一辈子 connects well with other time-related vocabulary. Students should focus on its usage in different contexts and how it interacts with verbs to express lifelong commitments or actions.
Learners often confuse 一辈子 with shorter expressions like 一年 (one year), leading to incorrect phrases like '我爱她一年' (I love her for one year) instead of '我爱她一辈子' (I love her for a lifetime). Remember that 一辈子 signifies a lifelong commitment.
Pronunciation of 一辈子
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Component Characters
How to say (for) a lifetime in Chinese
“(for) a lifetime” in Chinese is一辈子
一辈子 (yī bèi zi) refers to the duration of a person's entire life or a significant period within it. It is often used to express commitment or longevity in relationships, careers, or personal endeavors, and conveys a sense of permanence and seriousness.
When to use 一辈子
When using 一辈子, be mindful of the context; it is typically used in informal settings but can also appear in more serious discussions. Common collocations include '爱一辈子' (love for a lifetime) and '工作一辈子' (work for a lifetime). Avoid mixing it with short-term contexts.
一辈子 or something close to it
一生 (yīshēng) - use 一辈子 (yíbèizi) for emphasis on commitment or duration in a specific context, whereas 一生 (yīshēng) is more general for 'lifetime'.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 一辈子 with shorter expressions like 一年 (one year), leading to incorrect phrases like '我爱她一年' (I love her for one year) instead of '我爱她一辈子' (I love her for a lifetime). Remember that 一辈子 signifies a lifelong commitment.
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Grammar Patterns of 一辈子
一辈子 functions as a number. It almost always combines with a measure word before a noun (三个人, 五本书). Standalone numbers are rare outside of math or counting. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
她这____都恪守这些原则。
She has cleaved to these principles all her life.
Example Sentences for 一辈子 (10)
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Cultural Notes for 一辈子
In Western cultures, the idea of a lifetime commitment may be more flexible, often associated with personal choice rather than societal expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions about 一辈子
No, 一辈子 conveys a long-term perspective, so it's inappropriate for short-term goals.
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