(in the context of Chinese history) the period from the Opium Wars until the May 4th Movement (mid-19th century to 1919)
HSK 5, t, rank #32045, Hard
近代
jìndài
capitalist times (pre-1949)
HSK 5, t, rank #32045, Hard
jìndài(jin4dai4) T4
1the not-very-distant past
2modern times, excluding recent decades
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March 24, 2026
近代jìndài(jin4dai4)
近代 refers to a historical period that encompasses the not-so-distant past, particularly in the context of Chinese history. This term typically describes the time from the mid-19th century, starting with the Opium Wars, up until the May 4th Movement in 1919, marking a transition in Chinese society leading to modernity. It is often used when discussing social, political, and economic changes that occurred during this era.
Frequency#32045DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The term 近代 is crucial in understanding China's transition from imperial rule to modern governance, particularly during the tumultuous events like the Opium Wars and the May 4th Movement, which played a significant role in shaping modern Chinese nationalism.
Memory Tip
Imagine the character 近 (jìn), which means 'close', as representing the 'near' past. The character 代 (dài) suggests 'generation' or 'era.' Visualize a timeline with '近' marking the period just before today, showcasing significant events that shaped the modern era, helping you remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
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AI Study Notes for 近代
Quick Contrast
现代 (xiàndài, modern) refers to the contemporary period following 近代, emphasizing more recent developments and current societal norms.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine the character 近 (jìn), which means 'close', as representing the 'near' past. The character 代 (dài) suggests 'generation' or 'era.' Visualize a timeline with '近' marking the period just before today, showcasing significant events that shaped the modern era, helping you remember both the meaning and pronunciation.
Usage Notes
Be cautious not to confuse 近代 with 现代 (xiàndài), which refers to modern times or contemporary era, as 近代 specifically denotes a historical period. This term is typically used in formal historical discussions and academic contexts, so it may not be appropriate in casual conversations. Common collocations include 近代史 (modern history) and 近代文学 (modern literature).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 5 vocabulary word, 近代 connects well with other historical terms and contexts. Students should focus on its historical implications and be able to relate it to significant events and figures from that era. Understanding this term will enhance comprehension of discussions about China's transformation.
Cultural Note
The term 近代 is crucial in understanding China's transition from imperial rule to modern governance, particularly during the tumultuous events like the Opium Wars and the May 4th Movement, which played a significant role in shaping modern Chinese nationalism.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 近代 with 现代, using them interchangeably. For example, saying '我喜欢近代文学' (I like modern literature) is incorrect if referring to contemporary literature; it should be '我喜欢现代文学'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 近代
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Grammar Patterns of 近代
近代 carries 4 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 1
Complete the Sentence
这在黎巴嫩的____史上是个特别困难的时期。
This had been a particularly difficult chapter in Lebanon's recent history.
Example Sentences for 近代 (1)
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1
这在黎巴嫩的近代史上是个特别困难的时期。
zhè zài lí bā nèn de jìn dài shǐ shàng shì gè tè bié kùn nán de shí qī。
This had been a particularly difficult chapter in Lebanon's recent history.
Cultural Notes for 近代
🏮Cultural insight
The term 近代 is crucial in understanding China's transition from imperial rule to modern governance, particularly during the tumultuous events like the Opium Wars and the May 4th Movement, which played a significant role in shaping modern Chinese nationalism.
Frequently Asked Questions about 近代
近代 generally refers to the time from the mid-19th century, starting with the Opium Wars, to the May 4th Movement in 1919.
No, 近代 refers specifically to a historical period in the not-so-distant past, while 现代 refers to modern or contemporary times.
It is more appropriate in formal or academic contexts rather than in everyday casual conversations.
