自古 (zì gǔ) — since ancient times; from time immemorial

Definition

Literary phrase meaning 'since ancient times,' typically followed by 就 to emphasize a long-standing fact or custom. Used in formal writing or proverbs, not in casual speech.

verb
since ancient timesfrom time immemorial

Examples

  • 自古。
    zì gǔ Zhōng guó rén mín jiù xǐ huan hē chá.
    Since ancient times, the Chinese people have loved drinking tea.
  • 自古。
    Zhè ge dì fāng zì gǔ jiù yǒu hěn duō chuán shuō.
    This place has had many legends since ancient times.
  • 自古。
    zì gǔ Rén men jiù dǒng de zūn lǎo ài yòu de dào lǐ.
    Since ancient times, people have understood the principle of respecting the elderly and cherishing the young.

Origin

Characters in this word

A drawing of the thing itself, worn down over three thousand years into a few strokes.

假借jiǎjièLater borrowed for its sound alone — the picture has nothing to do with today’s meaning.

自 originally drew a nose. It was borrowed purely for its sound to write 自, so the picture and the meaning are unrelated.

Open 自 →

An abstract idea shown by a mark or a diagram rather than by a picture of an object.

One reading of 古 sees a shield-like shape above an open mark, showing strength and firmness. Another sees a person spitting out bad-tasting food.

Open 古 →

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