Usage of "往常"
"往常" is an adverb or noun meaning "usual" or "in the past". It often refers to habits, conditions, or situations that were typical before but may have changed. It is commonly used to contrast past and present states.
Common Collocations
- 往常的习惯 (usual habits): refers to routines or behaviors that were typical before.
- 往常总是 (usually always): emphasizes a habitual action in the past.
- 往常的天气 (usual weather): describes typical weather conditions in previous times.
Notes
"往常" is more formal and literary than some synonyms like "平时" or "以前". It often appears in written or formal spoken Chinese. Avoid confusing it with "往往" which means "often" but has a different usage.
When using "往常", speakers imply a comparison or contrast with the present, highlighting change or difference from what was once normal.