Chinese · Culture & Society
历史
lìshǐ
History
Beginnernoun
Definition
The study of past events.
Example
他对中国历史很感兴趣。
He is very interested in Chinese history.
Etymology
The word '历史' (lìshǐ) combines '历' (lì), which means 'to pass through' or 'to experience,' with '史' (shǐ), meaning 'history' or 'chronicle.' It denotes the study and recording of past events.
How & Where It’s Used
'历史' is often used in formal contexts, such as education and research, but can also appear in informal discussions about the past. It is used across all regions.
Literary Heritage
It appears in many classical texts, including Sima Qian's 'Records of the Grand Historian.'