HSK 5
以来
yǐlái
since
Structure
Time point / Event + 以来
How it works
The word '以来' (yǐlái) is used after a time noun, a specific period, or a phrase describing an event to indicate the period from that point until the present. It is often preceded by '自' (zì) or '从' (cóng) to emphasize the starting point. It typically refers to a continuous state or an ongoing trend.
Examples
今年以来，我们公司的业绩提升得非常快。
Jīnnián yǐlái, wǒmen gōngsī de yèjì tíshēng de fēicháng kuài.
Since the beginning of this year, our company's performance has improved very quickly.
他结婚以来，性格变得温柔多了。
Tā jiéhūn yǐlái, xìnggé biànde wēnróu duō le.
Since he got married, his personality has become much gentler.
自古以来，春节就是中国最重要的节日。
Zìgǔ yǐlái, Chūnjié jiùshì Zhōngguó zuì zhòngyào de jiérì.
Since ancient times, the Spring Festival has been the most important festival in China.
Common mistakes
Do not use '以来' to describe a single, completed action at a specific point in the past; it must describe a continuous duration or state leading up to the present.
Tip
Think of '以来' as 'from then until now'. If you want to say 'ever since', you can use the more formal '长期以来' (for a long time since) or '自...以来' structure.
More HSK 5 grammar
See 以来 in real Chinese
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