The character 从 is a simple picture of two people. The left side shows one person, and the right side shows another person slightly behind, as if following. This gives the core meaning of 'to follow' or 'from'.
In English, 'go from' is common, but in Chinese, 从 is typically paired with 到 to indicate a journey from one place to another.
When indicating a starting time, 从 is often followed by 起 or 开始 to mean 'starting from'.
从 means 'from' (a starting point), while 跟 means 'with' or 'and' (accompanying).
| Dimension | 从 | 跟 |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | from (a place/time) | with; and (a person) |
| Example | 我从北京来。 (I come from Beijing.) | 我跟朋友去。 (I go with a friend.) |
| Function | marks starting point | marks accompaniment |
No, 从 is rarely used alone as a verb 'to follow' in modern Mandarin; it is mostly a bridge word meaning 'from'.
| Dimension | Natural | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | 从 as bridge word: 从家到学校 | 从 as verb: 我从你 (I follow you) |
| Correct verb | 跟着你 (follow you) | 从你 (incorrect) |
Learn the fascinating story behind the Chinese idiom '东山再起' (Dongshan Zaiji), which means to make a comeback. Discover its historical roots and modern usage.
“东山再起”这个成语的本意是一个人失败以后或 从 高的地位落到低的地位以后，重新回到成功的位置。
Meet Gao Youpeng, a friendly Beijing coworker who welcomes the narrator with local dishes and a simple language-exchange plan. This warm HSK 2 story is perfect for first readings about work and friendship.
他今天 从 上海回来，晚上就和我去了一个饭馆儿吃北京菜。
This humorous dialogue follows a man who spends all his savings on his girlfriend's Apple phone and a lucky number, leaving him broke. A fun read for HSK 3 learners.
从 现在开始，不花钱了。
Why would a millionaire leave a table of lobster and wagyu untouched? This story explores the hidden rules of business dining and the true cost of staying alert.
从 那以后他才学会了，饭桌上吃得越少，别人越拿不准你，越拿不准就越不敢动你。
Think instant noodles are unhealthy? This HSK 6 article challenges common myths and reveals surprising facts about nutrition, oil, and salt in this convenient food.
误会二：方便面没有什么营养事实上，除了刚出生的小宝宝可以只吃一种食物获得全部营养以外，没有任何人可以 从 单一一种食物中获得全部的营养。
Discover how a simple letter from a cookie seller led to an unexpected friendship with a famous scholar. This heartwarming story explores kindness and connection across social divides.
如有我可以帮你小忙的事，如找你自己找不着的书之类，我一定很愿意做，” 从此 ，元真便成了博士胡之适的“我的朋友”了。
Meet Xiao Shang, who is heading back to Shanghai. She compares two ways to travel and tells us why she prefers the slower one. This story helps you practice comparing transportation in simple Chinese.
从 北京到上海坐飞机，不到两个小时，但是要坐火车，就要最少五个多小时。
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