01 / READExamples
Highlighted words show the grammar pattern. Reveal the English translation when needed.
下课以后，我们去附近吃饭。
After class, we will go somewhere nearby to eat.
The meal follows the end of class.
收到包裹以后，请给我发个消息。
After you receive the parcel, please send me a message.
The reference event can still be in the future.
晚上十点以后，请不要打电话。
Please do not call after ten in the evening.
The time phrase identifies the period during which the request applies.
02 / UNDERSTANDHow it works
Sentence pattern
以后 follows the event or time that serves as a starting point. 下课以后 means after class ends; 十点以后 means after ten o’clock. The main clause then says what happens in that later period.
An event before 以后 is not automatically in the past. It can be a future event that must happen before the next action, such as receiving a parcel before sending a message. By itself, 以后 can also mean later or in the future; name the reference event when you need a specific sequence.
COMMON MISTAKESWhat to watch for
Avoid请以后十点再打电话。
Use请在十点以后再打电话。
To say after ten, keep 十点 before 以后. 再 then places the call later in the sequence.
03 / PRACTISECheck your understanding
04 / VOCABULARYLesson vocabulary
| Chinese | Pinyin | Meaning here |
|---|---|---|
| 下课 | xiàkè | finish class |
| 附近 | fùjìn | nearby |
| 包裹 | bāoguǒ | parcel |
Choose a Chinese word for dictionary definitions, examples and stroke order. The meanings above are specific to this lesson.
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Written for this website. Levels indicate difficulty, not official HSK placement. The app covers this topic with different wording and exercises.
