一辈子
Traditional: 一輩子
yī bèi zi HSK 5

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

他打算一辈子住在这里。
Tā dǎsuàn yí bèi zi zhù zài zhèlǐ.
He plans to live here all his life.
她一辈子都在学习。
Tā yí bèi zi dōu zài xuéxí.
She has been studying all her life.
我想一辈子做这个工作。
Wǒ xiǎng yí bèi zi zuò zhège gōngzuò.
I want to do this job for a lifetime.
我忙了一辈子。
Wǒ máng le yí bèi zi.
I have been busy all my life.
他爱她一辈子。
Tā ài tā yí bèi zi.
He loves her for his entire life.

💡 Memory Tip

Break it down: 一 (one) + 辈子 (generation/lifetime) – think of 'one generation' as representing a full human lifespan. Associate it with phrases like 'for life' in English to remember its meaning of permanence.

📝 Usage Notes

This word is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese, in informal and semi-formal contexts. It often appears in expressions about life decisions, regrets, promises, or habits that span one's entire life, such as in personal reflections or advice.

📖 Grammar Points

一辈子 is typically used as an adverbial phrase to modify verbs, indicating the duration of an action (e.g., 爱一辈子). It can also serve as a noun object (e.g., 这是一辈子的事). It often follows verbs like 后悔, 爱, or 记住 to express lifelong impact.

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese culture, the concept of 一辈子 reflects values of long-term commitment, perseverance, and the importance of life choices. It is often used in contexts emphasizing family, relationships, or career, highlighting the cultural emphasis on enduring dedication and the consequences of one's actions over a lifetime.

🔄 Similar Words

一生 (yīshēng) also means 'a lifetime' but is slightly more formal and literary; 一辈子 is more colloquial and emphasizes the personal, everyday aspect of life. 终身 (zhōngshēn) means 'lifelong' and is often used in formal contexts like 终身学习 (lifelong learning).

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