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PrepositionsHSK 4

Comparing 离 and 从

从 marks the starting point of a time or event, and is used with 开始 (to start) or 起 (from… on). It emphasizes the beginning of an action or state.

离 indicates distance or separation in time or space. It is used to say how far something is from a point, and is not used for starting points like 从.

Structure

从 + Time/Event + 开始/起
for starting points in time; compare with 离 for distance

Examples

  • 从下个月起，公司会越来越忙。
    Cóng xiàge yuè qǐ , gōngsī huì yuèláiyuè máng.
    Starting from next month, the company will be busier and busier.
  • 从我上小学开始，就特别喜欢画画。
    Cóng wǒ shàng xiǎoxué kāishǐ , jiù tèbié xǐhuan huà huà.
    I have really liked drawing since starting elementary school.

Words that use this