照常

• Pinyin: zhào cháng
• Hanzi breakdown: 照 = 日 + 召 + 灬 (sunlight shining); 常 = 尚 + 巾 (always)

Meaning

As usual; as always. As an adverb, to continue normally without change.

Indicates that something proceeds according to the usual pattern despite circumstances that might suggest otherwise. Often used in announcements, schedules, and reassurances about continuity.

Examples

1. 尽管下着大雨，比赛照常进行。 Despite the heavy rain, the match went on as scheduled.
2. 节假日期间本店照常营业。 We’re open as usual during the holidays.
3. 虽然老板出差了，工作照常推进。 Even though the boss is on a business trip, the work is moving forward as usual.

Usage Guide

Context: announcements, schedules, business

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 受疫情影响，但生产线照常运转。(Despite the pandemic's impact, the production line operates as usual.)
• 明天照常上班，不要迟到。(Come to work as usual tomorrow; don't be late.)

Don't Say

• 我照常很开心 — use 一直 or 总是 for ongoing states; 照常 is for unchanged routines

Origin & History

照 (according to) + 常 (usual)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal