yuán xiān
former; original
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原先我想去北京，但是现在我想去上海。
yuánxiān wǒ xiǎng qù běijīng, dànshì xiànzài wǒ xiǎng qù shànghǎi.
I originally wanted to go to Beijing, but now I want to go to Shanghai.
原先他很穷，但是现在他很富有。
yuánxiān tā hěn qióng, dànshì xiànzài tā hěn fùyòu.
He used to be very poor, but now he is very rich.
原先我很喜欢他，但是现在我不喜欢他了。
yuánxiān wǒ hěn xǐhuan tā, dànshì xiànzài wǒ bù xǐhuan tāle.
I used to like him very much, but now I don't like him anymore.
后来 (hòulái)
later
现在 (xiànzài)
now
The Chinese word "原先" is composed of two characters: "原" and "先". The character "原" means "original", "beginning", or "source". The character "先" means "before", "previously", or "in advance". Together, the two characters "原先" mean "originally", "in the beginning", or "previously".The word "原先" is often used to refer to something that happened in the past or to something that was the case in the past. For example, you could say "原先我很喜欢吃鱼，但是现在我不喜欢了" (I used to like to eat fish, but now I don't).The word "原先" can also be used to refer to something that is the case at the present time, but that may not be the case in the future. For example, you could say "原先我很健康，但是现在我生病了" (I used to be healthy, but now I'm sick).The word "原先" is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts. It is an important word to know for HSK learners, as it is used frequently in both spoken and written Chinese.
