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HSK 7-9
thinkqiánbeforexiǎngthinkhòuafter
To think over and over; to consider carefully.

Literal meaning

think (思) — before (前) — think (想) — after (后)

Origin

A classical four-character phrase describing careful consideration.

Examples

qiánxiǎnghòuháishìjuédìngjiēshòuzhèfèngōngzuò
After thinking it over, I decided to accept the job.
Zuòjuédìngzhīqiányīnggāiqiánxiǎnghòu
You should think carefully before making a decision.

Usage & nuances

Emphasizes the process of careful deliberation.

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