An alarm clock is a tool to ensure you wake up or act on time.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A device that rings at a set time.
- Commonly used to wake people up.
- Now mostly integrated into smartphones.
Overview
- 1概述：闹钟（nàozhōng）是由“闹”（发出声响、骚动）和“钟”（计时器）两个字组成的词汇。它最基本的功能是在设定的时间点通过铃声或震动唤醒使用者。随着科技的发展，闹钟已从传统的机械式演变为电子式，现在更多人使用智能手机内置的闹钟功能。
- 1使用模式：在使用时，我们通常会说“定闹钟”或“设闹钟”。例如：“我明天要早起，所以定了六点的闹钟。”在使用过程中，我们还会关注“闹钟响了”（alarm goes off）或“关掉闹钟”（turn off the alarm）。
Examples
我每天早上定六点的闹钟。
everydayI set the alarm for 6 AM every morning.
闹钟响了，但他还没起床。
informalThe alarm went off, but he hasn't woken up yet.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
闹钟响了
The alarm is ringing
设个闹钟
Set an alarm
Often Confused With
时钟 (clock) is a general term for any time-telling device, whereas 闹钟 (alarm clock) specifically refers to one that includes an alert function.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word is neutral in register. You can use it in both formal and casual settings. Always pair it with the verb 定 when referring to the action of setting it.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use '设置' instead of '定', which is grammatically correct but less idiomatic. Also, remember that '闹钟' is the object, not the action itself.
Tips
Use the verb 定 for settings
Always use the verb '定' (set) when talking about preparing an alarm. For example, '定闹钟' is the standard collocation.
Don't confuse with generic clocks
Not all clocks are alarm clocks. Only clocks with a specific alert function are called 闹钟.
The shift from analog to digital
In China, while traditional mechanical alarm clocks are still sold, the vast majority of people now rely on their smartphones for this purpose.
Word Origin
The word combines 闹 (to make noise/disturb) and 钟 (clock). It literally translates to 'noise-making clock'.
Cultural Context
In Chinese culture, punctuality is highly valued, making the alarm clock a symbol of discipline. It is a common household item for students and office workers.
Memory Tip
Think of the '闹' (noise/disturb) to remember that this clock is the one that makes noise to disturb your sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions你可以说“我定了一个七点的闹钟”。这是最常用的表达方式。
可以说“闹钟响了”。如果想表达闹钟把你吵醒了，可以说“我被闹钟吵醒了”。
是的，虽然它是手机的一个功能，但我们依然称之为“手机闹钟”。
在口语中，如果某人总是准时提醒你，你可以开玩笑说他像个“闹钟”。
Test Yourself
明天早上七点，别忘了___闹钟。
在中文里，设置闹钟习惯用“定”这个动词。
Score: /1
Summary
An alarm clock is a tool to ensure you wake up or act on time.
- A device that rings at a set time.
- Commonly used to wake people up.
- Now mostly integrated into smartphones.
Use the verb 定 for settings
Always use the verb '定' (set) when talking about preparing an alarm. For example, '定闹钟' is the standard collocation.
Don't confuse with generic clocks
Not all clocks are alarm clocks. Only clocks with a specific alert function are called 闹钟.
The shift from analog to digital
In China, while traditional mechanical alarm clocks are still sold, the vast majority of people now rely on their smartphones for this purpose.
Examples
2 of 2我每天早上定六点的闹钟。
I set the alarm for 6 AM every morning.
闹钟响了，但他还没起床。
The alarm went off, but he hasn't woken up yet.
