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A1 noun #70 सबसे आम 14 मिनट पढ़ने का समय

时候

shíhou शीर्ष 70

At the A1 level, the focus is on the most basic and practical uses of 时候 (shíhou). The primary goal is to learn how to ask 'when' and how to use 时候 to describe simple daily activities. The phrase 什么时候 (shénme shíhou) is one of the first question structures you will learn. It is essential for basic survival Chinese, such as asking for the time of a train, a meeting, or a meal. You will also learn the basic '...的时候' structure to connect two simple actions. For example, 'When I eat' (我吃饭的时候) or 'When I go to school' (我去学校的时候). At this stage, you don't need to worry about the deep philosophical meanings or the formal synonyms. Just focus on getting the word order right: the action comes first, then 'de', then 'shihou'. You should also learn the basic demonstratives '这个时候' (this time) and '那个时候' (that time) to refer to specific moments in a conversation. Pronunciation is also key; practice saying 'shíhou' with a light second syllable to sound more natural. By the end of A1, you should be able to ask and answer simple questions about timing and describe when you perform basic daily routines. This word is a cornerstone of your early vocabulary, providing the necessary tools to navigate time-based interactions in a Chinese-speaking environment. You will use it to schedule coffee dates, ask about store hours, and tell people when you are busy or free. It is a simple but powerful word that opens up a world of communication possibilities.

As you move into the A2 level, your use of 时候 (shíhou) becomes more descriptive and integrated into slightly more complex sentences. You will start using 时候 not just with simple verbs, but with short phrases and adjectives. For example, you might say 'When the weather is good' (天气好的时候) or 'When I am very busy' (我很忙的时候). You will also begin to use 时候 to provide background information for a story, such as 'When I was in Beijing' (我在北京的时候). At this level, the distinction between 时候 and 时间 (shíjiān) becomes more important. You will learn that while 时候 is for 'when,' 时间 is for 'how long' or 'having time' (e.g., 我没有时间). You will also encounter the phrase '有时候' (yǒu shíhou), which means 'sometimes.' This allows you to describe habits and frequency more accurately. You might say, 'Sometimes I eat bread, sometimes I eat rice' (有时候我吃面包，有时候我吃米饭). Your ability to use 时候 as a temporal anchor will help you connect sentences and create a more logical flow in your speech. You will also start to notice 时候 in more varied contexts, such as in simple stories or dialogues in your textbook. The goal at A2 is to move beyond isolated questions and start using 时候 to add detail and context to your descriptions of past and present events. You are building the foundation for more advanced narrative skills.

At the B1 level, your understanding of 时候 (shíhou) expands to include more abstract and varied contexts. You will use it to describe conditions and hypothetical situations. For example, 'When you encounter problems, you should ask for help' (你遇到问题的时候，应该寻求帮助). The '...的时候' structure becomes a versatile tool for expressing 'if' or 'whenever' in certain contexts. You will also start to use 时候 in more formal or written Chinese, where it might occasionally be shortened to just '时' (shí) in compound words or formal phrases. However, in spoken Chinese, you will continue to use the full 'shíhou' to maintain a natural tone. At this stage, you should also be comfortable using 时候 with a wider range of time-related adverbs, such as '那个时候已经...' (at that time, it was already...). You will begin to appreciate the subtle differences between 时候 and its synonyms like 时刻 (shíkè) and 时期 (shíqī). While you might still use 时候 for most things, you will recognize that 时刻 is for more significant or precise moments. Your storytelling will become more sophisticated as you use 时候 to set the scene and transition between different parts of a narrative. You will also be able to understand 时候 when it is used in more complex audio materials, such as news reports or interviews, where the speakers might use it to define specific periods of policy or social change. The B1 level is about refinement and expanding the range of situations where you can confidently apply your knowledge of this essential word.

By the B2 level, you are expected to use 时候 (shíhou) with a high degree of precision and fluency. You will use it in complex sentence structures, often involving multiple clauses and nuanced temporal relationships. For example, you might use it to contrast different periods of time or to describe simultaneous actions in a more sophisticated way. You will also be familiar with more idiomatic uses and fixed expressions involving 时候. Your understanding of the difference between 时候 and 时间 will be near-perfect, and you will rarely make the common mistakes of earlier levels. At B2, you will also start to encounter 时候 in more literary or academic texts, where it might be used to discuss abstract concepts like 'the time of one's youth' or 'a time of transition.' You will be able to use 时候 to express subtle shades of meaning, such as the difference between 'at that moment' and 'during that period.' Your ability to use 时候 in debates and discussions will allow you to precisely time your arguments and refer back to specific points in a conversation. You will also be more aware of the cultural connotations of 时候, such as its use in expressing nostalgia or in traditional Chinese views on the importance of 'timing' (时机). The B2 level is about mastering the word's versatility and using it to express complex thoughts and emotions with clarity and style. You are no longer just using the word; you are wielding it as a tool for sophisticated communication.

At the C1 level, your mastery of 时候 (shíhou) allows you to use it in highly specialized and formal contexts. You will understand its historical evolution and its relationship to more formal temporal markers. You will be able to use 时候 in academic writing, professional presentations, and high-level negotiations, choosing it or its synonyms (like 时刻, 时期, or 阶段) with perfect accuracy to suit the register and tone of the situation. You will also be able to appreciate the use of 时候 in classical-style modern prose and poetry, where it might carry deep symbolic or philosophical weight. At this level, you can analyze the syntactic function of 时候 in complex sentences, understanding how it interacts with other grammatical particles to create specific temporal nuances. You will also be familiar with regional variations in its usage and pronunciation, although you will likely maintain a standard Mandarin delivery. Your ability to use 时候 in spontaneous, high-level conversation will be seamless, allowing you to navigate even the most subtle social and professional interactions with ease. You will also be able to explain the nuances of 时候 to others, demonstrating a deep linguistic and cultural understanding of the word. The C1 level is about achieving a near-native level of sophistication, where 时候 is just one part of a vast and finely-tuned vocabulary that you can use to express any idea, no matter how complex or abstract.

At the C2 level, your understanding of 时候 (shíhou) is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You have a profound grasp of its role in the Chinese language, from its ancient roots to its most modern applications. You can use 时候 and its myriad synonyms with complete spontaneity and precision, effortlessly adapting your choice of words to the most formal or informal settings. You will be able to appreciate the most subtle literary uses of 时候 in the works of great Chinese writers, understanding the emotional and philosophical layers it adds to the text. In your own writing and speech, you will use 时候 to create rhythm, emphasis, and clarity, demonstrating a masterly command of the language's temporal structures. You will also be able to engage in deep discussions about the nature of time in Chinese culture and philosophy, using 时候 as a starting point for exploring complex ideas. At this level, the word is no longer a 'vocabulary item' but a fundamental part of your linguistic identity. You can use it to evoke nostalgia, to build tension in a story, or to provide precise technical definitions in a professional context. Your mastery of 时候 is a testament to your deep immersion in the Chinese language and culture, allowing you to communicate with a level of nuance and sophistication that is truly exceptional.

इसका अभ्यास करें उदाहरण नोट्स और सुझाव

时候 30 सेकंड में

时候 (shíhou) is the standard Chinese word for 'moment' or 'situational time'.
It is primarily used to ask 'when' (什么时候) and to form 'when...' clauses (的时候).
It differs from 时间 (shíjiān), which refers to duration or the general concept of time.
It is an A1-level word but remains essential throughout all levels of Chinese proficiency.

The Chinese word 时候 (shíhou) is a fundamental noun that every learner encounters early in their journey. At its core, it translates to 'time' or 'moment,' but its usage is far more nuanced than its English counterparts. To understand 时候, one must first look at the individual characters that compose it. The first character, 时 (shí), originally depicted the sun and a hand holding a plant, symbolizing the seasons and the passage of time dictated by nature. The second character, 候 (hòu), originally referred to waiting or observing, like a scout watching for a signal. Together, they form a concept that is less about the abstract, linear progression of seconds and minutes, and more about a specific point in time or a period defined by a particular state or action. In daily conversation, 时候 is ubiquitous. It is the primary tool for asking 'when' and for describing the temporal context of an event. Unlike the English word 'time,' which can refer to the duration (e.g., 'I don't have much time'), 时候 is almost always used to pinpoint a specific instance or a relative timeframe. For example, when you want to ask 'When are you coming?', you use 什么时候 (shénme shíhou). When you want to say 'When I was a child,' you use 我小时候 (wǒ xiǎo shíhou). It acts as a temporal anchor, grounding the sentence in a specific moment of existence.

Point in Time: Refers to a specific moment, such as 'that moment' (那个时候) or 'this moment' (这个时候).

Relative Duration: Refers to a period defined by an activity, such as 'the time when eating' (吃饭的时候).

Interrogative Use: Combined with 'shénme' to form 'shénme shíhou' (什么时候), meaning 'when'.

你打算什么时候去北京？ (Nǐ dǎsuàn shénme shíhou qù Běijīng?) - When do you plan to go to Beijing?

我工作的时候不喜欢喝咖啡。 (Wǒ gōngzuò de shíhou bù xǐhuān hē kāfēi.) - I do not like to drink coffee when I am working.

那个时候，我们都很年轻。 (Nàge shíhou, wǒmen dōu hěn niánqīng.) - At that time, we were all very young.

有时候，我觉得学习汉语很难。 (Yǒu shíhou, wǒ juéde xuéxí Hànyǔ hěn nán.) - Sometimes, I feel that learning Chinese is very difficult.

你什么时候有空？ (Nǐ shénme shíhou yǒu kòng?) - When will you be free?

In summary, 时候 is the word you need whenever you are defining a temporal frame for an action. It serves as a bridge between the event and the time it occurs. Whether you are talking about the past, the present, or the future, 时候 provides the necessary context to make your sentences coherent and natural. It is one of the most versatile and essential words in the Chinese language, appearing in nearly every conversation, from the simplest greetings to the most complex philosophical discussions about the nature of existence and the passage of years.

Using 时候 correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement, which differs significantly from English. In English, we often start a sentence with 'When...' or 'While...'. In Chinese, the structure is reversed. You place the action or the description first, followed by the particle 的 (de), and then 时候 (shíhou). This creates a phrase that functions as a temporal adverbial. For example, 'When I go home' becomes 我回家的时候 (wǒ huí jiā de shíhou). This structure is incredibly productive and can be used with almost any verb or adjective. If you want to say 'When it is cold,' you say 天冷的时候 (tiān lěng de shíhou). If you want to say 'When I am happy,' you say 我高兴的时候 (wǒ gāoxìng de shíhou). This 'Action + 的 + 时候' pattern is the backbone of temporal expression in Chinese. Another crucial use is the phrase 什么时候 (shénme shíhou), which is the standard way to ask 'when.' Unlike English, where 'when' usually moves to the front of the sentence, in Chinese, it stays in the position where the answer would be. For example, 'You when go?' (你什么时候去？). Furthermore, 时候 can be modified by demonstrative pronouns like 这 (zhè - this) and 那 (nà - that) to mean 'this time' or 'that time.' These are often used to refer back to a specific moment previously mentioned in a conversation, providing a sense of continuity and precision. Understanding these patterns is key to achieving fluency.

The '...的时候' Pattern: Verb/Adjective + 的 + 时候. Example: 睡觉的时候 (When sleeping).

The '什么时候' Question: Subject + 什么时候 + Verb? Example: 你什么时候吃饭？ (When do you eat?).

Demonstrative Usage: 这个时候 (this time/now) or 那个时候 (that time/then).

我上大学的时候，经常去图书馆。 (Wǒ shàng dàxué de shíhou, jīngcháng qù túshūguǎn.) - When I was in university, I often went to the library.

你打算什么时候结婚？ (Nǐ dǎsuàn shénme shíhou jiéhūn?) - When do you plan to get married?

这件衣服是我年轻的时候买的。 (Zhè jiàn yīfu shì wǒ niánqīng de shíhou mǎi de.) - This piece of clothing was bought when I was young.

有些时候，沉默是最好的回答。 (Yǒuxiē shíhou, chénmò shì zuì hǎo de huídá.) - Sometimes, silence is the best answer.

到那个时候，你就会明白了。 (Dào nàge shíhou, nǐ jiù huì míngbai le.) - By that time, you will understand.

Mastering these sentence patterns will allow you to describe complex sequences of events and express conditions based on time. It is a vital step toward moving beyond simple sentences and into more descriptive, natural-sounding Chinese. Practice by replacing the verbs in the '...的时候' structure with your own daily activities, such as 'when I wake up' (我起床的时候) or 'when I am tired' (我累的时候).

In the real world, 时候 is heard in every conceivable context, from the bustling streets of Shanghai to the quiet villages of Yunnan. It is a word that transcends social class and regional dialects. In a professional setting, you might hear a manager ask, '你什么时候能完成这个报告？' (When can you finish this report?). In a casual setting among friends, someone might say, '我们去吃饭的时候，顺便买点水果。' (When we go to eat, let's buy some fruit while we're at it.). It is also a staple of Chinese pop culture. Many famous song lyrics use 时候 to evoke nostalgia or anticipation. For instance, the phrase '那时候' (at that time) is often used in ballads to look back on a lost love or a simpler time in the past. In movies and TV dramas, characters use 时候 to set the scene for their stories, often starting a monologue with '记得我小时候...' (I remember when I was little...). Even in news broadcasts, you will hear 时候 used to specify the timing of diplomatic meetings or natural events. It is a word that provides the temporal scaffolding for the entire language. Furthermore, in the digital age, you will see 时候 in social media posts, often abbreviated or used in memes to describe relatable 'moments' (e.g., '当我想睡觉的时候' - When I want to sleep). Its versatility makes it indispensable. Whether you are ordering food, negotiating a contract, or sharing a personal story, 时候 is the linguistic glue that holds the timing of your narrative together. It is not just a word; it is a fundamental way of organizing experience in the Chinese-speaking world.

Daily Life: Used for scheduling, asking for availability, and describing daily routines.

Entertainment: Common in song lyrics, movie scripts, and storytelling to create atmosphere.

Professional Environment: Essential for deadlines, meeting times, and project milestones.

老板，我什么时候可以休假？ (Lǎobǎn, wǒ shénme shíhou kěyǐ xiūjià?) - Boss, when can I take a vacation?

看电影的时候，请保持安静。 (Kàn diànyǐng de shíhou, qǐng bǎochí ānjìng.) - Please keep quiet when watching the movie.

你不在的时候，有人给你打电话了。 (Nǐ bù zài de shíhou, yǒurén gěi nǐ dǎ diànhuà le.) - While you were away, someone called you.

我小时候住在大连。 (Wǒ xiǎo shíhou zhù zài Dàlián.) - When I was a child, I lived in Dalian.

现在不是开玩笑的时候。 (Xiànzài bùshì kāiwánxiào de shíhou.) - Now is not the time for joking.

By paying attention to how native speakers use 时候, you will notice that it is rarely just a filler word. It always carries the weight of defining the 'when' of a situation. Whether you are listening to a podcast, watching a variety show, or chatting with a neighbor, 时候 will be there, helping you navigate the temporal landscape of the conversation. It is a word that you will not only hear but will find yourself using constantly as you become more comfortable with the language.

One of the most frequent errors English speakers make is confusing 时候 (shíhou) with 时间 (shíjiān). While both can be translated as 'time,' they are not interchangeable. 时间 refers to time as a concept, a duration, or a specific amount of time. For example, if you want to say 'I don't have time,' you must use 时间 (我没有时间). If you say '我没有时候,' it sounds nonsensical to a native speaker. Conversely, if you want to ask 'When are you coming?', you must use 时候 (你什么时候来？). Using 时间 here (你什么时间来？) is technically possible but sounds much more formal and is less common in daily speech. Another common mistake is the word order in 'when' clauses. English speakers often try to put 时候 at the beginning of the clause, mimicking the English 'When I was...'. Remember, in Chinese, the event comes first: 'I was young 的时候.' Forgetting the 的 (de) in this structure is also a common pitfall. The 的 is the grammatical glue that connects the event to the word 'time.' Without it, the sentence falls apart. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the neutral tone of the second syllable. While pronouncing it as 'shíhòu' (fourth tone) is understandable, it can sound stiff or like a regional dialect. Aiming for the light, neutral 'shíhou' will make your Chinese sound much more natural. Finally, be careful not to use 时候 when you mean 'weather' (天气 - tiānqì), even though both involve the character 气 in some related words, or 'season' (季节 - jìjié). 时候 is strictly about moments and periods of time.

Confusion with 时间 (shíjiān): Mistake: Using 时候 for duration. Correct: Use 时间 for 'how long' or 'having time'.

Incorrect Word Order: Mistake: Placing 时候 before the action. Correct: Action + 的 + 时候.

Omitting the '的': Mistake: Saying '我回家时候'. Correct: '我回家的时候'.

错误: 我没有时候去商店。 (Wǒ méiyǒu shíhou qù shāngdiàn.) - Incorrect: I don't have time to go to the store.

正确: 我没有时间去商店。 (Wǒ méiyǒu shíjiān qù shāngdiàn.) - Correct: I don't have time to go to the store.

错误: 时候我吃饭，我不看手机。 (Shíhou wǒ chīfàn, wǒ bù kàn shǒujī.) - Incorrect: When I eat, I don't look at my phone.

正确: 我吃饭的时候，不看手机。 (Wǒ chīfàn de shíhou, bù kàn shǒujī.) - Correct: When I eat, I don't look at my phone.

错误: 你什么时间来我家？ (Nǐ shénme shíjiān lái wǒ jiā?) - Awkward: What time are you coming to my house? (Too formal).

By being mindful of these common errors, you can avoid the typical 'foreigner' sounding mistakes and move closer to native-like proficiency. The key is to remember that 时候 is situational and relational—it describes the 'when' in relation to an action or a specific identified moment. Keep practicing the '...的时候' structure until it becomes second nature, and you will find your ability to express time in Chinese improves dramatically.

While 时候 is the most common word for 'time' in a general sense, Chinese has several other words that cover specific aspects of time. Understanding the differences between these synonyms will help you choose the most precise word for your context. The most common alternative is 时间 (shíjiān), which we have already discussed. Use 时间 for duration (e.g., 'three hours of time') or when referring to time as a resource. Another important word is 时刻 (shíkè). While 时候 is broad, 时刻 is much more specific and often carries a more formal or emotional weight. It refers to a precise 'moment' or 'instant.' For example, 'a historical moment' would be 历史时刻 (lìshǐ shíkè). You might also encounter 时期 (shíqī), which refers to a longer, distinct period or stage in history or development, such as 'the period of the Three Kingdoms' (三国时期). For even broader stages of life or a process, 阶段 (jiēduàn) is used to mean 'phase' or 'stage.' In very formal or literary Chinese, you might see 时 (shí) used alone as a suffix, such as 届时 (jièshí - at the appointed time) or 彼时 (bǐshí - at that time). Finally, if you want to talk about 'opportunity' or 'the right time,' the word 时机 (shíjī) is more appropriate. Each of these words carves out a specific niche in the vast landscape of temporal expression. Choosing the right one shows a deep understanding of the language's nuances.

时候 vs. 时间: 时候: Specific point or situational 'when'. 时间: Duration or abstract concept of time.

时候 vs. 时刻: 时候: General 'time'. 时刻: Precise, often significant 'moment'.

时候 vs. 时期: 时候: Short-term or situational. 时期: Long-term historical or developmental period.

这是一个关键时刻。 (Zhè shì yīgè guānjiàn shíkè.) - This is a critical moment.

在战争时期，生活很艰苦。 (Zài zhànzhēng shíqī, shēnghuó hěn jiānkǔ.) - During the period of war, life was very hard.

我们需要等待最好的时机。 (Wǒmen xūyào děngdài zuì hǎo de shíjī.) - We need to wait for the best opportunity/timing.

他花了很长时间才完成。 (Tā huāle hěn cháng shíjiān cái wánchéng.) - He spent a long time to finish it.

在这个阶段，我们主要学习基础知识。 (Zài zhè ge jiēduàn, wǒmen zhǔyào xuéxí jīchǔ zhīshì.) - At this stage, we mainly learn basic knowledge.

In conclusion, while 时候 is your 'go-to' word for most temporal expressions, being aware of its neighbors in the dictionary will enrich your vocabulary and allow you to express yourself with greater clarity. As you progress in your studies, try to identify which 'time' word best fits the specific nuance you want to convey. Whether it is a fleeting moment, a long historical era, or a practical duration, Chinese has a specific word to help you describe it perfectly.

How Formal Is It?

औपचारिक

"届时请准时出席。"

तटस्थ

"你什么时候回来？"

अनौपचारिक

"我小时候可调皮了。"

Child friendly

"睡觉的时候要乖哦。"

बोलचाल

"什么时候咱俩聚聚？"

रोचक तथ्य

The character 候 (hòu) is also used in 'climate' (气候), which shows its ancient connection to observing the natural world and its changes over time.

उच्चारण मार्गदर्शिका

UK /ʃiː xoʊ/

US /ʃi xoʊ/

The stress is on the first syllable 'shí'. The second syllable 'hou' is weak and neutral.

तुकबंदी

口 (kǒu) 手 (shǒu) 走 (zǒu) 狗 (gǒu) 酒 (jiǔ) 旧 (jiù) 肉 (ròu) 后 (hòu)

आम गलतियाँ

Pronouncing 'hou' with a full fourth tone (hòu), which makes it sound like 'after'.
Not curling the tongue enough for the 'sh' sound.
Making the 'i' sound too much like 'ee' in 'see' instead of the more neutral Chinese 'i'.

कठिनाई स्तर

पठन 1/5

The characters are simple and very common. Most beginners recognize them quickly.

लिखना 2/5

The character '候' has several strokes and can be tricky for new learners to write correctly.

बोलना 1/5

Easy to pronounce, though the neutral tone on 'hou' requires some practice.

श्रवण 1/5

Very easy to hear as it is used so frequently in daily speech.

आगे क्या सीखें

पूर्वापेक्षाएँ

时 (shí) 什么 (shénme) 的 (de) 小 (xiǎo) 有 (yǒu)

आगे सीखें

时间 (shíjiān) 以后 (yǐhòu) 以前 (yǐqián) 正在 (zhèngzài) 已经 (yǐjīng)

उन्नत

时刻 (shíkè) 时期 (shíqī) 时机 (shíjī) 阶段 (jiēduàn) 彼时 (bǐshí)

ज़रूरी व्याकरण

The '...的时候' structure acts as a time word for the entire sentence.

我回家的时候，妈妈在做饭。

The interrogative '什么时候' does not require a change in word order.

你什么时候去北京？

The particle '的' is essential in the '...的时候' pattern.

吃饭的时候 (Correct) vs 吃饭时候 (Informal/Incorrect)

'有时候' can be used at the beginning of a sentence or after the subject.

有时候我喝茶。 / 我有时候喝茶。

'那个时候' and '这个时候' function as temporal demonstratives.

那个时候我很穷。

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

你什么时候去学校？

When do you go to school?

Uses '什么时候' (when) in a basic question structure.

我吃饭的时候不看书。

I don't read books when I eat.

Uses '...的时候' to indicate the time of an action.

你什么时候有空？

When are you free?

A common phrase for scheduling.

我睡觉的时候很安静。

I am very quiet when I sleep.

Uses an adjective phrase with '...的时候'.

那个时候，我很开心。

At that time, I was very happy.

Uses '那个时候' to refer to a past moment.

什么时候去商店买东西？

When are we going to the store to buy things?

Basic question about a future activity.

他工作的时候很认真。

He is very serious when he works.

Describes a state during an action.

你什么时候回国？

When are you returning to your country?

A standard question for travelers.

我小时候住在一个小城市。

When I was a child, I lived in a small city.

Uses '小时候' (when little/childhood) as a fixed phrase.

有时候，我喜欢一个人散步。

Sometimes, I like to take a walk alone.

Uses '有时候' to express frequency.

天气好的时候，我们去爬山。

When the weather is good, we go mountain climbing.

Uses an adjective clause with '...的时候'.

你打算什么时候开始学习？

When do you plan to start studying?

Uses '什么时候' with the auxiliary verb '打算'.

我生病的时候不想吃东西。

I don't want to eat when I am sick.

Describes a condition using '...的时候'.

那个时候，我还不认识他。

At that time, I didn't know him yet.

Refers to a specific past state.

你什么时候能把书还给我？

When can you return the book to me?

Uses '什么时候' with the potential '能'.

下雨的时候，我喜欢听音乐。

When it rains, I like to listen to music.

Connects a natural event with a personal habit.

你遇到困难的时候，不要放弃。

When you encounter difficulties, do not give up.

Uses '...的时候' for a conditional advice.

那个时候的社会和现在很不一样。

The society at that time was very different from now.

Uses '那个时候的' as an attributive modifier for a noun.

我正要出门的时候，突然下雨了。

Just as I was about to go out, it suddenly started raining.

Uses '正要...的时候' to indicate a precise moment.

有时候，我们需要停下来思考。

Sometimes, we need to stop and think.

Uses '有时候' to introduce a philosophical reflection.

你什么时候方便和我见个面？

When would it be convenient for you to meet with me?

A more formal way to ask for a meeting.

在我最需要帮助的时候，他出现了。

When I needed help the most, he appeared.

Uses '在...的时候' to set a narrative scene.

那个时候，我还没意识到问题的严重性。

At that time, I hadn't realized the seriousness of the problem.

Refers to a past lack of awareness.

学习汉语的时候，多听多说是关键。

When learning Chinese, listening and speaking more is the key.

Uses '...的时候' to introduce a learning tip.

在那个动荡的时代，每个人都在寻找出路。

In that turbulent era, everyone was looking for a way out.

Uses '时候' in a more literary, descriptive context.

你打算什么时候才肯告诉我们真相？

When exactly do you intend to tell us the truth?

Uses '才肯' to add emphasis and a sense of delay.

有些时候，放弃比坚持更需要勇气。

In some instances, giving up requires more courage than persisting.

Uses '有些时候' to introduce a nuanced perspective.

我写论文的时候，通常会关掉手机。

When I write my thesis, I usually turn off my phone.

Describes a professional or academic habit.

那个时候的他，充满了对未来的憧憬。

The him of that time was full of longings for the future.

Uses '那个时候的' to modify a person, indicating a past version of them.

每当我感到疲惫的时候，都会想起家乡。

Whenever I feel exhausted, I always think of my hometown.

Uses '每当...的时候' to mean 'whenever'.

你什么时候才能学会独立思考？

When will you finally learn to think independently?

A rhetorical or critical question using '什么时候才能'.

在经济危机的时候，许多公司都倒闭了。

During the economic crisis, many companies went bankrupt.

Uses '时候' to define a specific historical/economic period.

彼时彼刻，我心中充满了难以言表的激动。

At that very time and moment, my heart was filled with unspeakable excitement.

Uses the formal/literary '彼时彼刻' for emphasis.

在那个特定的历史时候，这种变革是不可避免的。

At that specific historical juncture, this kind of transformation was inevitable.

Uses '时候' in a high-level historical analysis.

你什么时候才能真正领悟到生命的真谛？

When will you finally be able to truly grasp the true meaning of life?

A deep philosophical question using '什么时候才能'.

有时候，沉默本身就是一种最有力的抗争。

Sometimes, silence itself is the most powerful form of resistance.

Uses '有时候' to introduce a profound social observation.

在那个物质匮乏的时候，人们的精神生活却很丰富。

In that time of material scarcity, people's spiritual lives were very rich.

Contrasts two aspects of a historical period.

每当夜深人静的时候，我都会反思自己的过去。

Whenever it is deep in the night and all is quiet, I reflect on my past.

Uses a poetic four-character idiom with '的时候'.

那个时候的他，正处于事业的巅峰期。

At that time, he was at the peak of his career.

Combines '那个时候' with another temporal term '巅峰期'.

什么时候我们才能达成共识，共同应对挑战？

When will we be able to reach a consensus and face the challenges together?

Uses '什么时候' in a formal, diplomatic context.

纵观历史，每当文明交替的时候，总会伴随着剧烈的动荡。

Throughout history, whenever civilizations transition, it is always accompanied by violent turbulence.

Uses '每当...的时候' in a high-level historical synthesis.

在那个特定的时空背景下，个人的命运往往显得微不足道。

Under that specific space-time background, individual destiny often appears insignificant.

Uses '时候' within a complex philosophical framework.

你究竟要到什么时候，才能放下心中的执念？

Just when exactly will you be able to let go of the obsessions in your heart?

A highly emotional and rhetorical use of '到什么时候'.

有时候，历史的走向仅仅取决于一个偶然的瞬间。

Sometimes, the course of history depends solely on a chance moment.

Uses '有时候' to introduce a complex historiographical theory.

在那个万物复苏的时候，大地重新焕发了生机。

At that time when all things were reviving, the earth regained its vitality.

Uses poetic imagery with '的时候'.

每当我想起那段艰苦卓绝的时候，心中总会涌起一股暖流。

Whenever I think of that extremely difficult time, a warm current always surges in my heart.

Uses a formal four-character idiom to describe the '时候'.

什么时候人类才能真正实现和平共处，依然是一个未解之谜。

When humanity will truly achieve peaceful coexistence remains an unsolved mystery.

Uses '什么时候' as a subject clause in a complex sentence.

彼时彼刻的抉择，决定了我们今日的格局。

The choices made at that very time and moment determined our situation today.

Uses '彼时彼刻' to link past actions to present consequences.

सामान्य शब्द संयोजन

什么时候

那个时候

这个时候

有时候

小时候

有些时候

什么时候都

关键时候

什么时候开始

任何时候

सामान्य वाक्यांश

什么时候？

……的时候

小时候

有时候

那个时候

这个时候

什么时候都行

关键时候

到什么时候

任何时候

अक्सर इससे भ्रम होता है

时候 vs 时间

时间 is for duration or the concept of time. 时候 is for a specific moment or situational 'when'.

时候 vs 天气

Learners sometimes confuse the 'qi' in 'tianqi' with the 'hou' in 'shihou' due to 'qihou' (climate).

时候 vs 以后

以后 means 'after' or 'in the future'. 时候 means 'at the time of'.

मुहावरे और अभिव्यक्तियाँ

"曾几何时"

Meaning 'before long' or 'it wasn't that long ago'. It is used to express that things have changed quickly.

曾几何时，这里还是一片荒地。 (Not long ago, this place was still a wasteland.)

Literary

"彼时彼刻"

Meaning 'at that very time and moment'. It is used for emphasis in storytelling.

彼时彼刻，我感到无比自豪。 (At that very moment, I felt incredibly proud.)

Formal

"时不我待"

Meaning 'time waits for no one'. It encourages people to seize the moment.

我们要抓紧时间，时不我待。 (We must hurry; time waits for no one.)

Formal

"生不逢时"

Meaning 'to be born at the wrong time'. It describes someone whose talents are not appreciated due to the era.

他觉得自己生不逢时。 (He feels he was born at the wrong time.)

Neutral

"时过境迁"

Meaning 'times have changed'. It refers to how circumstances change over time.

虽然时过境迁，但他依然记得那件事。 (Although times have changed, he still remembers that matter.)

Formal

"不合时宜"

Meaning 'out of step with the times' or 'inappropriate for the occasion'.

他的笑话在葬礼上很不合时宜。 (His joke was very inappropriate at the funeral.)

Neutral

"与时俱进"

Meaning 'to keep pace with the times'. It is a common political and social slogan.

企业必须与时俱进。 (Enterprises must keep pace with the times.)

Formal

"独霸一时"

Meaning 'to dominate for a time'. It describes someone or something that was powerful for a period.

这家公司曾经独霸一时。 (This company once dominated for a time.)

Neutral

"风靡一时"

Meaning 'to be all the rage for a time'. It describes a temporary fad or trend.

这种发型曾经风靡一时。 (This hairstyle was once all the rage.)

Neutral

"千钧一发"

Meaning 'at the critical moment' or 'hanging by a thread'. It describes a very dangerous moment.

就在千钧一发的时刻，他救了那个孩子。 (At the critical moment, he saved that child.)

Formal

आसानी से भ्रमित होने वाले

时候 vs 时间 (shíjiān)

Both mean 'time' in English.

时间 is quantitative (duration) or abstract. 时候 is qualitative (a specific moment or situation). You can have 'three hours of 时间' but not 'three hours of 时候'.

我花了很多时间学习。 (I spent a lot of time studying.)

时候 vs 时刻 (shíkè)

Both refer to a point in time.

时刻 is more precise and often used for significant or formal moments. 时候 is general and casual.

这是历史性的时刻。 (This is a historical moment.)

时候 vs 时期 (shíqī)

Both refer to a period of time.

时期 refers to a long-term, defined era or stage. 时候 refers to a short-term or situational period.

在抗战时期... (During the period of the War of Resistance...)

时候 vs 时机 (shíjī)

Both relate to time.

时机 specifically means 'opportunity' or 'the right moment' to act. 时候 is just 'time' in general.

错过了最好的时机。 (Missed the best opportunity.)

时候 vs 功夫 (gōngfu)

In some dialects, '功夫' means time.

功夫 usually means martial arts or effort. Using it for 'time' is informal and regional.

我有功夫再来。 (I'll come back when I have time.)

वाक्य संरचनाएँ

Subject + 什么时候 + Verb?

你什么时候去？

Verb + 的时候

吃饭的时候

有时候..., 有时候...

有时候我喝咖啡，有时候我喝茶。

Adjective + 的时候

忙的时候

在...的时候

在我想家的时候

正要...的时候

我正要睡觉的时候，电话响了。

每当...的时候

每当过节的时候，我都会给父母打电话。

彼时彼刻

彼时彼刻，他做出了决定。

शब्द परिवार

संज्ञा

क्रिया

विशेषण

इसे कैसे इस्तेमाल करें

frequency

Extremely high. It is one of the top 100 most used words in Mandarin.

सामान्य गलतियाँ

Using 时候 for duration. → 我学了三个小时的时间。 (I studied for three hours.)
时候 cannot be used to count time. Use 时间 or just the number + measure word.
Saying '时候我...' instead of '...的时候'. → 我睡觉的时候很安静。
The temporal marker must follow the clause it modifies in Chinese.
Omitting the '的' in '...的时候'. → 吃饭的时候不要说话。
The 'de' is grammatically necessary to link the verb to the noun 'shihou'.
Confusing 什么时候 with 几点. → 你什么时候去？ (When are you going?) vs 你几点去？ (What time are you going?)
什么时候 is broad; 几点 is specific to the clock.
Using 时候 to mean 'weather'. → 今天天气很好。
Even though 'qihou' means climate, 'shihou' only means time. Use 'tianqi' for weather.

सुझाव

Word Order is Key

Always put the action before '的时候'. Think of it as 'the time of the action'. This is the opposite of English 'When [action]'.

Distinguish from 时间

If you are talking about duration (how long) or time as a resource, use 时间. If you are talking about 'when', use 时候.

Neutral Tone

The second syllable 'hou' is neutral. Keep it short and light to sound like a native speaker.

Asking Questions

Use '什么时候' to ask 'when'. It stays in the same position in the sentence as the answer would.

Using 小时候

This is a very common way to start stories about your past. Practice using it to describe your childhood.

Listen for 'De'

The particle 'de' is a great cue that a temporal description is happening. It helps you parse the sentence.

Sometimes Pattern

Use '有时候..., 有时候...' to describe alternating habits or states.

Demonstratives

Use '这个时候' and '那个时候' to refer back to specific moments you've already discussed.

Replace Placeholders

Practice by taking any verb you know and adding '的时候' to it to create new time expressions.

Conciseness

As you get more advanced, notice how '的时候' can be shortened to just '时' in formal writing.

याद करें

स्मृति सहायक

Think of 'shí' as 'she' and 'hou' as 'home'. She is home at the right 'time'.

दृश्य संबंध

Imagine a person looking at a sun dial (时) while waiting (候) for a friend. That specific moment is the 'shíhou'.

Word Web

什么时候 (When?) 的时候 (When...) 小时候 (Childhood) 有时候 (Sometimes) 这个时候 (Now/This moment) 那个时候 (Then/That moment) 任何时候 (Any time) 关键时候 (Critical moment)

चैलेंज

Try to use 时候 in three different ways today: once to ask a question, once to describe a past moment, and once to say 'sometimes'.

शब्द की उत्पत्ति

The word 时候 is a compound of two characters: 时 (shí) and 候 (hòu). 时 originally referred to the seasons and the sun's movement. 候 originally meant to observe or wait for a signal. Together, they evolved to mean a point in time that is observed or experienced.

मूल अर्थ: The original meaning was related to observing the seasons or waiting for a specific natural event.

Sino-Tibetan

सांस्कृतिक संदर्भ

There are no major sensitivities associated with this word. It is a neutral, everyday term.

English speakers often struggle with 时候 because they want to use 'when' as a conjunction at the start of a sentence. In Chinese, 时候 is a noun that ends the temporal clause.

The song '那时候' (At That Time) by various artists. The phrase '小时候' used in countless nostalgic essays in Chinese schools. The concept of '天时地利人和' (Right time, right place, right people).

असल ज़िंदगी में अभ्यास करें

वास्तविक संदर्भ

Daily Scheduling

你什么时候有空？
我们什么时候见面？
什么时候开始？
什么时候结束？

Sharing Memories

我小时候...
那个时候...
上学的时候...
年轻的时候...

Giving Instructions

过马路的时候要小心。
吃饭的时候不要说话。
有问题的时候请问我。
回家的时候买点菜。

Describing Habits

有时候我去公园。
不忙的时候我喜欢看书。
累的时候我会睡觉。
开心的时候我会唱歌。

Professional Setting

什么时候能交报告？
开会的时候请关机。
关键时候不能出错。
任何时候都可以联系。

बातचीत की शुरुआत

"你什么时候开始学习汉语的？ (When did you start learning Chinese?)"

"你小时候最喜欢的玩具是什么？ (What was your favorite toy when you were a child?)"

"你什么时候打算去中国旅游？ (When do you plan to travel to China?)"

"你心情不好的时候会做什么？ (What do you do when you are in a bad mood?)"

"你什么时候觉得最有压力？ (When do you feel the most stressed?)"

डायरी विषय

写一写你小时候最难忘的一件事。 (Write about the most unforgettable thing from when you were a child.)

描述一下你一天中什么时候最忙。 (Describe when you are busiest during the day.)

你觉得什么时候是学习的最好时机？ (When do you think is the best time for learning?)

谈谈你遇到困难的时候是如何克服的。 (Talk about how you overcome difficulties when you encounter them.)

如果你可以回到过去，你想回到什么时候？ (If you could go back to the past, when would you want to go back to?)

अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले सवाल

10 सवाल

No, you should use 时间 (shíjiān). '我没有时间' is correct. '我没有时候' is incorrect because 时候 refers to a specific moment, not time as a resource.

什么时候 (shénme shíhou) is a general 'when' (could be a day, a month, or a time). 几点 (jǐ diǎn) specifically asks for the time on the clock (e.g., 3 o'clock).

Yes, in standard Mandarin, the 'de' (的) is grammatically required to link the action to the word 时候. For example, '吃饭的时候' (When eating).

Yes, it can. For example, '我到家的时候会给你打电话' (I will call you when I get home).

It means 'sometimes'. For example, '我有时候走路去上班' (Sometimes I walk to work).

Use the fixed phrase 小时候 (xiǎo shíhou). For example, '我小时候住在这里' (I lived here when I was a child).

No, the word order is wrong. It must be '我吃饭的时候'. The time clause always follows the action in Chinese.

It is neutral and used in both formal and informal speech. However, in very formal writing, it might be shortened to just '时'.

那时 (nàshí) is a more concise and slightly more formal version of 那个时候 (nàge shíhou). They mean the same thing: 'at that time'.

No, for seasons use 季节 (jìjié). However, you can say '夏天的时候' (when it is summer).