本来

• 拼音: běn lái
• 汉字拆解: 本 = 木 (tree) + 一 (one), indicating the root of a tree; 来 = simplified from 來, meaning to come

含义

Originally; as a matter of fact. Used to indicate an original state, plan, or expectation, often implying that things changed later.

Frequently used to describe what was initially planned or expected before a change occurred. Can also emphasize something that should be obvious or taken for granted. Often paired with 可是 or 但是 to introduce a contrast.

例句

1. 我本来想去看电影，可是下雨了。
2. 这件事本来很简单，你不用担心。
3. 他本来不喜欢吃辣的，现在习惯了。

用法指南

语境: everyday, narrative

语气: explanatory

正确说法

• 我本来打算明天去，但是改了计划。(I originally planned to go tomorrow, but changed my plans.)
• 这道题本来就不难。(This question isn't difficult to begin with.)

错误说法

• 本来明天天气好。(Don't use 本来 to state a simple fact about the future — it implies an original state that changed. Say 明天天气好 instead)

起源与历史

本 (root, origin) + 来 (come). Together they convey the sense of 'from the origin' or 'originally.'

文化背景

世代: All ages

社会背景: Universal