Definition
先是 is a time adverb used in narrative to mean 'at first' or 'initially,' often followed by a contrast or change of situation (e.g., 先是…后来…). It introduces the first stage in a sequence and typically appears at the start of a clause before the subject or verb. Unlike 'former' or 'original,' it does not function as an adjective — it modifies the whole clause, not a noun.
adverb
at firstinitially (in a sequence)
Examples
- 先是，。xiān shì tiānqì hěn rè, hòulái tūrán xià qǐ le dà yǔ.At first it was very hot, then suddenly it started pouring rain.
- 先是，。Tā xiān shì bù tóngyì wǒmen de jìhuà, dàn zuìhòu bèi shuōfú le.He initially disagreed with our plan, but was finally persuaded.
- 先是，。Zhè bù diànyǐng xiān shì hěn wúliáo, kěshì kàn dào hòumiàn yuè lái yuè jīngcǎi.This movie was boring at first, but it gets more and more exciting later.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.