那时

那时 (nà shí) means 'at that time' or 'then,' and is used to refer to a specific past moment in a narrative. It helps establish temporal context, often in storytelling or recounting events.

The character 那 (nà) means 'that,' and 时 (shí) means 'time.' Together, they form a phrase that points to a specific point in the past, distinguishing it from general references to time.

那时 is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to indicate when something happened. It is especially useful in historical narratives, personal stories, or when comparing past and present situations. For example, it can be used to contrast what was done in the past with what is done now.