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March 24, 2026
当初(當初)dāngchū(dang1chu1)
当初 refers to a specific point in the past, often implying the original circumstances or intentions at that time. It is commonly used when reminiscing about past events or decisions, highlighting what was once considered or planned before changes occurred.
Strokes13Frequency#2902DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, reflecting on '当初' often involves a sense of nostalgia and the importance of past decisions, which can influence present relationships and actions. This concept is deeply rooted in the idea of honoring one's history and the lessons learned.
Memory Tip
Imagine a time capsule (当) containing items from your past (初). This time capsule represents what was significant back then, reminding you of the original context or feelings associated with that moment.
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AI Study Notes for 当初
Quick Contrast
初期 (chūqī) - use 当初 when referring to a specific moment in the past with a focus on original intentions, whereas 初期 refers more broadly to an early stage or period.
Usage Notes
当初 is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but be aware that it can carry a nostalgic connotation. Common collocations include '当初的计划' (the original plan) and '当初的决定' (the original decision). Avoid confusing it with similar phrases that refer to present conditions.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 word, 当初 connects well with other temporal expressions and words related to memory and reflection. Focus on using it in sentences that describe past events or decisions, practicing with other HSK 6 vocabulary to enhance your fluency.
Common Mistakes
Learners often mistakenly use 当初 to imply current feelings or situations, such as saying '当初我喜欢这个' (At that time I like this), when it should be '当初我喜欢这个' (At that time I liked this). Ensure you use the past tense appropriately.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 当初
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How Well Do You Know 当初?
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Learning Lab
Knowing 当初 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
当初 refers to a specific point in the past, often implying the original circumstances or intentions at that time. It is commonly used when reminiscing about past events or decisions, highlighting what was once considered or planned before changes occurred.
When to use 当初
当初 is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but be aware that it can carry a nostalgic connotation. Common collocations include '当初的计划' (the original plan) and '当初的决定' (the original decision). Avoid confusing it with similar phrases that refer to present conditions.
当初 or something close to it
初期 (chūqī) - use 当初 when referring to a specific moment in the past with a focus on original intentions, whereas 初期 refers more broadly to an early stage or period.
What learners get wrong
Learners often mistakenly use 当初 to imply current feelings or situations, such as saying '当初我喜欢这个' (At that time I like this), when it should be '当初我喜欢这个' (At that time I liked this). Ensure you use the past tense appropriately.
Write 当初
当
初
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Grammar Patterns of 当初
当初 carries 2 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 4
Fill the gap
Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.
我真惊讶他们____竟然有脸问。
I'm amazed they had the cheek to ask in the first place.
