历经

• Pinyin: lì jīng
• Hanzi breakdown: 历 = 厂 + 力 (to pass through); 经 = 纟+ 巠 (to go through/pass)

Meaning

To have passed through; to have endured or experienced over a sustained period. Implies a significant, often arduous journey through events or time.

More literary and formal than 经历. Suggests sustained passage through challenges rather than a single experience. Common in historical writing, biographical accounts, and solemn reflection on hardship or change.

Examples

1. 这座古桥历经数百年风雨，至今仍巍然屹立。 After enduring centuries of wind and rain, this ancient bridge still stands firm today.
2. 历经三年艰苦谈判，双方终于就停火协议达成一致。 After three years of tough negotiations, the two sides finally reached an agreement on a ceasefire deal.
3. 她历经重重阻碍，最终成功将这部心血之作带到了舞台上。 After overcoming countless obstacles, she finally brought her labor of love to the stage.

Usage Guide

Context: history, biography, hardship, endurance

Tone: solemn

Do Say

• 这家企业历经多次市场危机，凭借稳健的经营策略屡次化险为夷。(This company has weathered multiple market crises and, through sound management strategies, turned danger into safety time and again.)
• 历经漫长的康复训练，他终于重新站上了赛场，令所有人动容。(Having endured a long rehabilitation process, he finally stood on the field again, moving everyone to tears.)

Don't Say

• 在日常口语中用'历经'替代'经过'或'经历' — 历经语气庄重，用于平凡事务显得夸张，口语场合改用'经历'或'经过'

Origin & History

历 (to pass through/undergo in succession) + 经 (to go through/experience)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal