Definition
前身 literally means 'front body' — the front part of a traditional Chinese robe. In modern usage it is far more common as a metaphorical term for a predecessor, forerunner, or earlier form of something (e.g., a company's original name, a historical entity). In Buddhist contexts it specifically refers to a previous incarnation. As a noun, it is used formally and often appears in historical or organizational introductions.
n.
predecessorforerunnerprevious form (of an organization, concept, or person)front part of a Chinese robe or jacket
Examples
- 前身。Zhè jiā gōngsī de qián shēn shì yì jiā xiǎo gōngchǎng.The predecessor of this company was a small factory.
- 前身。Tā xiāngxìn tā de qián shēn shì yí wèi sēngrén.He believes his previous incarnation was a monk.
- 前身。Zhè jiàn chángpáo de qián shēn xiù zhe jīngměi de huāwén.The front part of this robe is embroidered with exquisite patterns.
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