先
before; prior; ancestor; first
Meanings
7 senses · 35 examplesadjective
earlier in time or order (opposite of '后')
Used to indicate something that comes before others in time or sequence.
We should strive to be advanced workers.
There is a precedent for this method.
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We should do our work before the event.
He played a leading role in the team.
The students vied to answer questions.
adverb
indicating an action or event occurs earlier
Used to indicate that one action happens before another.
He arrived at the classroom before me.
Please allow me to say a few opening words first.
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I'll finish my homework first, then go out to play.
Don't leave yet, I still have something to tell you.
He raised his hand first, then answered the teacher's question.
adverb
temporarily; for the time being
Indicates that something is being put aside temporarily.
Let's put this matter aside for now; we'll discuss it later.
Let's not consider this issue for now; we'll first solve the more urgent matters.
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I'll lend you the money for now; you can pay me back next month.
Let's rest for a while first, then continue working.
This plan is temporarily on hold; we'll implement it after getting approval from superiors.
noun
ancestor; forefather
Refers to ancestors or previous generations of a family.
We must not forget the teachings of our ancestors.
These traditions are precious treasures left by our ancestors.
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Our ancestors lived on this land for hundreds of years.
We will pay respects to our ancestors during the Qingming Festival.
This great person is an ancestor of our nation.
noun
term of respect for the deceased
formalUsed as a respectful prefix for deceased relatives or respected figures.
His late father was a famous doctor.
We must always remember the sacrifices of the martyrs.
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This wise philosopher's ideas have influenced several generations.
My late mother always taught us to be honest and trustworthy.
We缅怀先贤with deep respect.
noun
previous; earlier; before
informalSpoken usage referring to a previous time or state.
Xiao Wang's skills are much better than before.
Why didn't you tell me about this earlier?
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This city is completely different from what I saw before.
The previous plan was cancelled; we need to make a new one.
He worked here for three years before.
noun
a surname
Refers to the Chinese surname 'Xian'.
My teacher's surname is Xian.
Mr. Xian is the manager of our company.
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Do you know Ms. Xian?
The surname Xian is not very common in China.
I have a friend surnamed Xian, whose given name is Ming.