HSK 4
自
zì
自 (from/since)
Explanation
自 (zì) is a preposition (a word placed before a noun to show a relationship: at, with, from...), used to mark a starting point in time or place, meaning 'from, since'.
自 (zì) + [time / place] (+ 以来 yǐlái / 起 qǐ). A common pattern is 自...以来 zì...yǐlái = 'since... up to now'. For example 自1978年以来 = 'since 1978 until now'.
In written language, formal sentences, and announcements (history, aviation, communiqués). It marks the starting point of a process or the point of departure of a movement.
自 zì carries a formal tone, usually goes with a noun/specific point, and often comes with 以来 yǐlái. 从 cóng is the common word for 'from' in everyday conversation and is more flexible (从这儿到那儿 cóng zhèr dào nàr). In everyday speech you should use 从, not 自.
Vietnamese learners often use 自 in everyday sentences, which sounds stiff; and they forget the 以来 yǐlái clause when they want to express 'up to now'. Do not write 自...以来 and then add 到现在 as well, which is redundant.
Examples
Since 1978 up to now, China has undergone great changes.
Our flight departs from Beijing on time.
Practice
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Learn “自” effectively
The grammar point “自” (自 (from/since)) is one of the key structures at HSK 4. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
You can also view the full “” lesson to understand the related grammar and vocabulary more deeply.