1. long ago從前;很久以前
Once upon a time there dwelt a fisherman on the lakeside. 從前湖邊住著一個漁民。
Once upon a time there lived a king who had an ugly daughter. 從前有一位國王,他有一個醜陋的女兒。
2. sometime before now以前
Once upon a time she was thought to be the most talented actress in the country. 以前她被認為是該國最有才華的女演員。