Understanding "过去" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 过去
• Pinyin: guò qù
• Literal Meaning: "to pass" (过) + "to go" (去)
• Primary Meaning: "past" (as in time) or "to go over" (as in movement)

2. In-depth Explanation

• Context and Usage:
• Time-related: Refers to the past, similar to "in the past" or "formerly."
• Movement-related: Means "to go over" or "to pass by" a place or situation.

• Can also imply "to get through" a difficult time or event.

• Character Breakdown:

• 过 (guò): Means "to pass," "to cross," or "to experience."
• 去 (qù): Means "to go" or "to leave." Together, they emphasize the idea of moving beyond something, whether time or space.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 过去的事情就让它过去吧。
   Pinyin: Guòqù de shìqing jiù ràng tā guòqù ba.
   English: Let bygones be bygones.

2. Chinese: 他刚刚从我们身边走过去。
   Pinyin: Tā gānggāng cóng wǒmen shēnbiān zǒu guòqù.
   English: He just walked past us.

3. Chinese: 过去的十年里，中国发展很快。
   Pinyin: Guòqù de shí nián lǐ, Zhōngguó fāzhǎn hěn kuài.
   English: In the past ten years, China has developed rapidly.

Cultural Notes

• In Chinese culture, reflecting on the past (过去) is often tied to lessons learned or nostalgia.
• The phrase "让过去过去" (ràng guòqù guòqù, "let the past pass") is a common way to encourage moving on from regrets.

Conclusion

"过去" (guòqù) is a versatile word that can refer to the past in time or the act of passing by in space. Whether discussing history or movement, it’s a useful term to master in Chinese. Remember: 过 (pass) + 去 (go) = "past" or "go over."