往往

• Pinyin: wǎng wǎng
• Hanzi breakdown: 往 = 彳 (step) + 主 (lord/main, phonetic) — to go or head towards, reduplicated for emphasis

Meaning

Often; usually; tend to. Indicates that something typically happens under certain conditions or follows a pattern.

Unlike 常常 (which simply means 'frequently'), 往往 implies a recurring pattern based on observation or experience. It suggests that given certain conditions, a particular outcome is likely. Often used to share wisdom or make generalisations.

Examples

1. 骄傲的人往往看不到自己的缺点。 Proud people often cannot see their own shortcomings.
2. 简单的办法往往最有效。 The simplest methods are often the most effective.
3. 成功的背后往往有很多困难。 Behind success, there are often many difficulties.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, academic, advisory

Tone: observational

Do Say

• 考试前紧张的学生往往考不好。(Students who are nervous before exams often don't do well.)
• 这种事情往往发生在冬天。(This kind of thing usually happens in winter.)

Don't Say

• 我往往在七点起床。(For regular habits, use 通常 or 一般. 往往 implies a pattern linked to conditions, not a fixed routine.)

Origin & History

A reduplication of 往 (meaning 'to go towards' or 'past'). The repetition emphasises the regularity of a trend or pattern.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal