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A2 verb #6,200 most common 12 min read

到场

Top 6,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 到场 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 到场 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '到场' (dàochǎng) as a more specific version of '来' (lái - to come) or '到' (dào - to arrive). Even though it is technically an A2 word, you can understand it by looking at its parts. '到' means 'to arrive' and '场' means 'place' or 'field.' So, when you see '到场,' it simply means someone arrived at a place where an event is happening. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the formal nuances. Just remember that if you are going to a birthday party or a class, and you get there, you have '到场.' In simple sentences, you might see '他到场了' (He arrived). You can use it to talk about people coming to a specific spot. It's like saying 'I'm here!' but in a slightly more complete way. Think of it as 'arriving at the scene.' If you are playing a game of football and you arrive at the field, you have '到场.' It's a very physical word at this level. You are moving your body from one place to another specific place where something is going on. Don't worry about using it in complex business settings yet; just focus on the idea of 'showing up' to a place where people are gathered.

At the A2 level, you should start using '到场' (dàochǎng) to describe attendance at events like meetings, parties, or school activities. This word is more formal than '来' (lái). For example, if your teacher says, '请准时到场' (Qǐng zhǔnshí dàochǎng), they are asking you to arrive on time for class or an event. You will notice that '到场' is often used with time words like '准时' (on time) or '已经' (already). You should also learn that '到场' is usually used for people, not objects. If you are invited to a wedding, you '到场' to show respect to the couple. A key thing to remember at this level is that '到场' doesn't usually take an object directly. You wouldn't say '到场学校' (arrive scene school). Instead, you just say '他已经到场了' (He has already arrived at the scene). This word helps you sound more natural when talking about social obligations. It's the standard word for 'showing up.' If you are organizing a small meeting with friends, you can ask, '大家都到场了吗？' (Is everyone here yet?). This is a very practical and common way to use the word in daily life.

At the B1 level, you will encounter '到场' (dàochǎng) in more varied contexts, such as news reports, office communications, and formal invitations. You should understand the difference between '到场' (arriving at the scene) and '在场' (being at the scene). '到场' is an action. For example, '警察很快就到场了' (The police arrived at the scene very quickly). Here, the focus is on the speed of their arrival. You will also see '到场' used in the context of '亲自到场' (qīnzì dàochǎng), which means 'to arrive in person.' This is an important phrase when talking about bosses, celebrities, or parents attending important events. It shows that their physical presence is significant. You might also start seeing '到场' in written Chinese, like in a newspaper: '数千名观众到场观看比赛' (Thousands of spectators arrived to watch the match). At this level, you should be able to use '到场' to describe not just your own arrival, but the arrival of groups of people at public events. It becomes a tool for describing social scenes and public gatherings more accurately. You should also be comfortable using it in the negative: '他因为有事没能到场' (He couldn't show up because he was busy).

At the B2 level, '到场' (dàochǎng) is used with greater precision in professional and semi-formal settings. You should recognize its use in legal and official documents. For instance, in a court case, '证人必须到场' (The witness must be present). The '场' here is the courtroom. You should also understand its role in event planning and logistics. Phrases like '到场人数' (number of attendees) or '到场率' (attendance rate) are common in business reports. At this level, you should be able to distinguish '到场' from '出席' (chūxí). While '出席' implies a formal role (like a speaker or a committee member), '到场' is more about the physical act of being there. If you are reporting on a corporate event, you might write: '除了受邀嘉宾，还有许多普通市民到场' (In addition to the invited guests, many ordinary citizens also arrived at the scene). This shows a sophisticated grasp of how '到场' describes the general public versus official participants. You should also be able to use it metaphorically in some contexts, though it remains primarily a physical arrival word. Your ability to use it in complex sentences, such as '虽然他没能亲自到场，但送来了贺信' (Although he couldn't arrive in person, he sent a congratulatory letter), shows high proficiency.

At the C1 level, you should be able to appreciate the stylistic nuances of '到场' (dàochǎng) in literature and high-level journalism. It is often used to create a sense of 'being there' (现场感 - xiànchǎnggǎn). In a descriptive essay, an author might use '到场' to highlight the moment a character enters a critical scene, changing the atmosphere. You should also understand how '到场' interacts with other formal synonyms like '莅临' (lìlín - used for VIPs) or '现身' (xiànshēn - used for sudden appearances). For example, a C1 learner should know that using '到场' in a formal report is neutral and professional, while '莅临' is honorific. You will also see '到场' in discussions about 'presence' in a more philosophical or social sense—the importance of 'showing up' in community life. In legal contexts, you'll understand the implications of '到场' in terms of procedural requirements. If a party in a lawsuit is '未到场' (not present), the legal consequences are specific. You should be able to use '到场' fluently in debates about public participation or event management, using it to discuss the impact of physical presence versus virtual presence in the modern world.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '到场' (dàochǎng) involves an intuitive understanding of its placement within the broader spectrum of Chinese formal and informal registers. You can use it with absolute precision in any context, from a legal brief to a poetic description of a gathering. You understand that '到场' can sometimes carry a weight of responsibility—the 'duty to be present.' You might analyze how the word is used in political discourse to emphasize the government's 'presence' at the grassroots level ('政府官员深入基层，亲自到场解决问题'). You are also aware of how the word has evolved with technology; for instance, discussing '云到场' (virtual presence) as a play on the original meaning of physical arrival. At this level, you can use '到场' to critique social phenomena, such as the '到场文化' (the culture of just showing up for the sake of being seen). Your usage is not just grammatically correct but culturally resonant, reflecting a deep understanding of how 'presence' (面子 and 场面) functions in Chinese society. You can switch between '到场,' '出席,' '莅临,' and '现身' effortlessly to achieve the exact tone and level of respect required for your audience.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

到场 in 30 Seconds

到场 (dàochǎng) means 'to arrive at the scene' or 'to be present' at an event.
It is more formal than '来' (come) and is used for meetings, weddings, and emergencies.
Commonly paired with '准时' (on time) and '亲自' (in person).
It is an intransitive verb, so it doesn't take a direct object like 'the meeting'.

The Chinese verb 到场 (dàochǎng) is a compound word that literally translates to 'arriving at the field' or 'arriving at the scene.' In modern Mandarin, it serves as a formal and precise way to describe the act of being present at a specific event, meeting, or location where something significant is happening. While the English word 'present' can describe a state of being, '到场' emphasizes the movement toward and arrival at a designated venue. It is an essential term for anyone navigating social, professional, or legal environments in China. Unlike the simple verb '来' (lái - to come), '到场' implies a level of purpose and formality. You wouldn't typically use '到场' to say you came to a friend's house for a casual snack; instead, you use it when your presence is expected at a wedding, a board meeting, a press conference, or a sports match.

Etymological Breakdown: The character 到 (dào) means to arrive or to reach. The character 场 (chǎng) refers to a field, a ground, or a public place. Together, they signify the completion of a journey to a specific gathering point.

全体嘉宾已经到场，婚礼即将开始。(Quántǐ jiābīn yǐjīng dàochǎng, hūnlǐ jíjiāng kāishǐ.) - All the guests have arrived, and the wedding is about to begin.

In professional contexts, '到场' is used to track attendance. If a manager asks, '人员到场了吗？' (Rényuán dàochǎng le ma?), they are asking if the necessary personnel have arrived at the site. This is particularly common in industries like construction, event planning, and emergency services. In legal or journalistic contexts, it refers to witnesses or officials arriving at a crime scene or the site of an accident. The word carries a sense of 'showing up' to fulfill a role. It is also used in the world of entertainment; for example, if a famous actor is scheduled to '到场' at a movie premiere, it creates a sense of occasion. The nuance here is that the person's physical presence is a notable event in itself.

Common Collocations: You will often see '准时到场' (zhǔnshí dàochǎng - arrive on time) and '亲自到场' (qīnzì dàochǎng - arrive in person). The latter is used to emphasize that a high-ranking official or a busy person made the effort to be there physically.

市长亲自到场参加了剪彩仪式。(Shìzhǎng qīnzì dàochǎng cānjiāle jiǎncǎi yíshì.) - The mayor arrived in person to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Furthermore, '到场' can be used in the negative to indicate absence. '未到场' (wèi dàochǎng) is a formal way to say 'did not show up.' In sports, if a team fails to '到场,' they might face a forfeit. This word is deeply rooted in the concept of 'presence' as a requirement. It is not just about being somewhere; it is about being where you are supposed to be for a specific purpose. This makes it a high-frequency word in news reports, where journalists describe the arrival of rescue teams or government representatives at a scene. The versatility of '到场' across these various domains makes it a cornerstone of intermediate Chinese vocabulary.

由于天气原因，部分运动员未能按时到场。(Yóuyú tiānqì yuányīn, bùfèn yùndòngyuán wèinéng ànshí dàochǎng.) - Due to weather reasons, some athletes were unable to arrive on time.

In summary, '到场' is more than just 'arriving.' It is the official act of being present at a '场' (venue/scene). Whether you are talking about a celebrity on a red carpet, a witness in court, or a student at a graduation ceremony, '到场' is the verb that captures the transition from being elsewhere to being 'on-site.' It bridges the gap between simple movement and formal attendance, making it a vital tool for clear communication in Chinese society.

Using 到场 (dàochǎng) correctly involves understanding its role as an intransitive verb that often interacts with adverbs of time, manner, and frequency. Because '到场' implies an arrival at a specific event, it is frequently preceded by '准时' (on time), '已经' (already), or '未能' (failed to). It is rarely followed by a direct object because the '场' (field/venue) is already built into the word itself. You don't say '到场会议' (arrive scene meeting); instead, you say '到场参加会议' (arrive at the scene to participate in the meeting).

Sentence Pattern 1: Subject + Adverb + 到场: This is the most common pattern. It simply states that someone has arrived or will arrive at the venue. Example: '请大家准时到场' (Please everyone arrive on time).

所有的面试官都已到场。(Suǒyǒu de miànshìguān dōu yǐ dàochǎng.) - All the interviewers have already arrived.

Another important usage involves the word '亲自' (qīnzì - in person). When a person of status arrives, using '亲自到场' adds a layer of respect and highlights their personal involvement. This is common in business and political reporting. For instance, '董事长亲自到场指导工作' (The chairman arrived in person to guide the work). This structure shows that the presence was not merely a formality but an act of leadership.

Sentence Pattern 2: 到场 + 参加/支持 (Purpose): Often, '到场' is followed by another verb to explain why the person is there. '感谢各位到场支持' (Thank you all for arriving to support [us]). This is a staple phrase at the end of speeches or performances.

欢迎各位媒体朋友到场采访。(Huānyíng gèwèi méitǐ péngyǒu dàochǎng cǎifǎng.) - Welcome all media friends to arrive and conduct interviews.

In negative sentences, '没' or '不' are used to indicate non-attendance. For example, '他因为生病没能到场' (He couldn't arrive/be present because he was sick). In more formal writing, you might see '缺席' (quēxí - to be absent), but '没到场' is very common in spoken and semi-formal Chinese. It focuses on the physical failure to reach the venue.

Usage in Questions: When checking attendance, you can ask: '还有谁没到场？' (Who else hasn't arrived?). This is a standard question for teachers, tour guides, and event organizers.

请确认名单上的人员是否全部到场。(Qǐng quèrèn míngdān shàng de rényuán shìfǒu quánbù dàochǎng.) - Please confirm whether all the personnel on the list have arrived.

Finally, '到场' can be used to describe the atmosphere of a crowd. While '到场' itself refers to the people, phrases like '到场人数' (number of people present) are common in news. '到场人数超过了一万人' (The number of people who arrived exceeded ten thousand). This shows how the word scales from individual presence to mass gatherings. By mastering these patterns, you can use '到场' to accurately describe attendance in almost any situation.

You will encounter 到场 (dàochǎng) in a wide variety of real-world scenarios across China, from the mundane to the high-stakes. One of the most frequent places you'll hear it is in the world of **event management and hospitality**. If you are at a wedding, the host will likely say, '感谢大家在百忙之中抽空到场' (Thank you all for taking the time to be present despite your busy schedules). This is a standard polite formula that acknowledges the effort guests made to travel to the venue. In this context, '到场' carries a warm, appreciative tone.

Corporate and Business Meetings: In an office setting, '到场' is the go-to word for physical presence. Even in the age of Zoom, if a meeting is 'in-person,' a manager might insist, '这个会议要求必须到场' (This meeting requires physical presence). It differentiates between joining remotely and being there in the flesh.

由于是重要谈判，双方老总都到场了。(Yóuyú shì zhòngyào tánpàn, shuāngfāng lǎozǒng dōu dàochǎng le.) - Since it was an important negotiation, the CEOs of both sides arrived in person.

**News and Media** is another major domain for '到场.' When a natural disaster or an accident occurs, news anchors will report on the arrival of rescue teams. They might say, '救援人员已第一时间到场' (Rescue personnel arrived at the scene immediately). Here, '到场' emphasizes the rapid response and the beginning of the rescue operation. Similarly, in crime reporting, '警察到场后展开了调查' (After the police arrived at the scene, they launched an investigation). In these cases, the '场' specifically refers to the *locus delicti* or the site of interest.

Entertainment and Fan Culture: At concerts, fan meets, or movie screenings, the host will often announce the arrival of a star: '让我们欢迎某某明星到场！' (Let's welcome [Star's Name] to the stage/scene!). Fans will also use the word to describe their own attendance: '我今天也到场支持我的偶像了' (I also showed up today to support my idol).

发布会吸引了数百名记者到场。(Fābùhuì xīyǐnle shùbǎi míng jìzhě dàochǎng.) - The press conference attracted hundreds of journalists to the scene.

Lastly, you'll hear '到场' in **legal contexts**. A lawyer might say, '证人必须到场作证' (The witness must be present in court to testify). In this instance, the '场' is the courtroom. Failure to '到场' can have legal consequences. Whether it's the joy of a wedding, the urgency of a rescue, or the solemnity of a courtroom, '到场' is the word that signals the start of the action by the presence of the participants. It is a word that connects people to the physical spaces where life happens.

While 到场 (dàochǎng) seems straightforward, English speakers often make several common errors when integrating it into their Chinese. The most frequent mistake is confusing '到场' with other 'arrival' or 'presence' verbs like '来' (lái), '出席' (chūxí), or '在场' (zàichǎng). Understanding the nuances between these is key to sounding like a native speaker.

Mistake 1: Confusing '到场' with '在场': '到场' is an action verb (the act of arriving), whereas '在场' is a stative verb (the state of being there). If you want to say 'He was present when it happened,' you should use '他在场' (Tā zàichǎng). If you say '他到场,' it means 'He arrived at the scene.'

Incorrect: 事故发生时，我到场。 (Sìgù fāshēng shí, wǒ dàochǎng.)
Correct: 事故发生时，我在场。 (Sìgù fāshēng shí, wǒ zàichǎng.)

Another common error is using '到场' for general 'arrival' at locations that aren't 'venues' or 'scenes.' For example, you wouldn't usually say '我到场家了' (I arrived at the scene of home). For home, school, or the office in a general sense, '到' or '回到' is sufficient. '到场' implies a specific event is taking place at that location. It requires a '场' (an occasion or a specific ground).

Mistake 2: Overusing it for 'Attend': Learners often use '到场' as a direct translation for 'attend.' While they are related, '出席' (chūxí) is better for formal meetings where you have a role (like a delegate). '到场' is more about the physical arrival. If you are a speaker at a conference, you '出席' the conference. If you are just a member of the audience, you '到场.'

Incorrect: 他到场了会议并发表了演讲。 (Tā dàochǎngle huìyì bìng fābiǎole yǎnjiǎng.)
Correct: 他出席了会议并发表了演讲。 (Tā chūxíle huìyì...)

Finally, be careful with the word order. Because '到场' is an intransitive verb, you cannot put an object directly after it. You cannot say '到场婚礼' (arrive scene wedding). You must say '到场参加婚礼' (arrive at the scene to participate in the wedding) or '在婚礼到场' (though the former is much more natural). This 'verb + verb' structure is a common feature of Chinese grammar that English speakers sometimes struggle with. By keeping '到场' as the 'arrival' part of the sentence and using other verbs for the 'action' part, you will avoid these grammatical traps.

To truly master 到场 (dàochǎng), you need to know its 'neighbors'—words that share similar meanings but are used in different contexts. Chinese is rich with synonyms that vary by formality, tone, and specific setting. Here, we compare '到场' with four other common terms.

1. 出席 (chūxí) vs. 到场: **出席** is more formal and implies participation. It is used for delegates, members, or invited guests at a structured meeting or ceremony. **到场** is broader and simply means physical arrival. You can '到场' as a spectator, but you '出席' as a participant.

Example: 只有半数委员出席了会议。 (Only half of the committee members attended the meeting.)

2. 莅临 (lìlín) vs. 到场: **莅临** is an extremely formal, honorific term used to describe the arrival of a high-ranking guest or superior. It is almost exclusively used in formal invitations or welcoming speeches. Using **到场** for a CEO is fine, but using **莅临** is much more respectful and 'high-level.'

3. 现身 (xiànshēn) vs. 到场: **现身** means 'to show up' or 'to make an appearance,' often used when someone's arrival is unexpected or highly anticipated (like a celebrity). While **到场** is neutral, **现身** has a more dramatic or journalistic flair. '他终于现身了' (He finally showed up).

Example: 消失多年的歌手突然在演唱会现身。 (The singer who had disappeared for years suddenly appeared at the concert.)

4. 到位 (dàowèi) vs. 到场: **到位** means 'to reach the designated position' or 'to be in place.' It is often used for resources, funds, or staff in a logistics sense. While **到场** is about the person arriving at the scene, **到位** is about everything being ready and in its proper spot. '资金已经到位' (The funds are in place).

By choosing the right word from this set, you can convey subtle differences in respect, expectation, and role. '到场' remains the most versatile and 'safe' word for general use, but knowing these alternatives will significantly elevate your Chinese proficiency and help you navigate different social strata in China.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient times, '场' was often an open space for religious sacrifices. '到场' thus carried a sense of sacred or communal duty.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dàʊ tʃʰǎŋ/

US /daʊ tʃɑŋ/

The primary stress is usually equal on both characters in Mandarin, but 'chǎng' often carries slightly more weight as the destination.

Rhymes With

报偿 (bàocháng) 战场 (zhànchǎng) 商场 (shāngchǎng) 广场 (guǎngchǎng) 下场 (xiàchǎng) 考场 (kǎochǎng) 赌场 (dǔchǎng) 立场 (lìchǎng)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'chǎng' with a flat first tone.
Confusing 'dào' with 'dao' (as in knife).
Merging the two sounds without distinct tonal separation.
Mispronouncing the 'ch' as 'ts'.
Failing to aspirate the 'ch' in 'chǎng'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The characters are common, and the meaning is literal.

Writing 3/5

Writing '场' requires attention to the radical and stroke order.

Speaking 2/5

The tones are distinct and easy to master with practice.

Listening 2/5

Frequently heard in many contexts, making it easy to recognize.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

到场来去参加

Learn Next

出席莅临现场缺席在场

Advanced

亲临现身入场退场到位

Grammar to Know

Serial Verb Construction

他到场参加会议。(He arrived and participated in the meeting.)

Adverbial Placement

请准时到场。(Please arrive on time.)

Negative '未能'

他未能到场。(He failed to arrive.)

Resultative Particle '了'

他已经到场了。(He has arrived.)

Locative Phrases

在婚礼现场到场。(Arrived at the wedding scene.)

Examples by Level

他到场了。

He arrived (at the scene).

Simple Subject + Verb + Particle 'le'.

我准时到场。

I arrive on time.

Adverb '准时' comes before the verb.

老师到场了吗？

Has the teacher arrived?

Question using 'ma'.

我们都到场了。

We are all here (arrived at the scene).

Using '都' (all) to modify the subject.

你什么时候到场？

When will you arrive?

Question using '什么时候'.

他在八点到场。

He arrived at eight o'clock.

Time expression before the verb.

请大家到场。

Please everyone arrive (at the scene).

Polite request using '请'.

爸爸还没到场。

Dad hasn't arrived yet.

Negative using '还没'.

请大家准时到场参加会议。

Please everyone arrive on time to participate in the meeting.

Serial verb construction: 到场 + 参加.

今天有很多客人到场。

Many guests arrived today.

Using '很多' to describe the subject.

你必须亲自到场。

You must arrive in person.

Adverb '亲自' emphasizes personal presence.

婚礼上，所有的亲戚都到场了。

At the wedding, all the relatives arrived.

Locative phrase '婚礼上' sets the context.

他因为生病没能到场。

He couldn't show up because he was sick.

Using '没能' (was not able to).

记者已经到场采访了。

The reporter has already arrived to interview.

Already + arrived + purpose.

比赛开始前，运动员都已到场。

Before the game started, the athletes had all arrived.

Time clause '比赛开始前'.

欢迎各位嘉宾到场。

Welcome all guests to be present.

Standard welcoming phrase.

警察在事故发生后五分钟就到场了。

The police arrived at the scene just five minutes after the accident.

Using '就' to emphasize the speed of arrival.

这次活动吸引了超过五百人到场。

This event attracted over five hundred people to the scene.

Structure: Subject + 吸引 + Object + 到场.

如果证人不到场，审判就无法进行。

If the witness does not show up, the trial cannot proceed.

Conditional '如果...就...'.

他作为特别嘉宾到场致辞。

He arrived as a special guest to give a speech.

Using '作为' (as) to define the role.

虽然天气不好，但观众依然准时到场。

Although the weather was bad, the audience still arrived on time.

Conjunction '虽然...但...'.

请确认所有工作人员是否已经到场。

Please confirm whether all staff members have already arrived.

Indirect question using '是否'.

他代表公司到场参加了开幕式。

He arrived to participate in the opening ceremony on behalf of the company.

Using '代表' (on behalf of).

只有少数几位核心成员到场开会。

Only a few core members arrived for the meeting.

Using '只有' (only) for limitation.

市长亲自到场为新学校剪彩。

The mayor arrived in person to cut the ribbon for the new school.

Formal use of '亲自' with a high-status subject.

由于交通堵塞，部分代表未能按时到场。

Due to traffic congestion, some delegates failed to arrive on time.

Formal cause '由于' and negative '未能'.

该项目的负责人必须到场解释进度。

The person in charge of the project must be present to explain the progress.

Modal verb '必须' (must).

消防队迅速到场并控制了火势。

The fire brigade quickly arrived at the scene and controlled the fire.

Coordinate verbs '到场' and '控制'.

为了确保安全，安保人员已提前到场。

To ensure safety, security personnel have arrived at the scene in advance.

Purpose clause '为了...'.

发布会现场，众多媒体记者到场报道。

At the press conference, many media reporters arrived to report.

Describing a professional scene.

如果双方当事人不到场，调解将失效。

If both parties do not show up, the mediation will be invalid.

Legal terminology '当事人' and '失效'.

他虽未到场，但他的精神与我们同在。

Although he was not present, his spirit is with us.

Literary use of '未' for negation.

此番名家到场，令整个画展蓬荜生辉。

The arrival of these famous masters made the entire art exhibition shine with glory.

Using the idiom '蓬荜生辉' with '到场'.

在没有任何预告的情况下，他突然到场，引起了不小的轰动。

Without any prior notice, he suddenly arrived, causing quite a stir.

Complex prepositional phrase '在...情况下'.

专家组到场后，对事故原因进行了深入的技术鉴定。

After the expert group arrived at the scene, they conducted an in-depth technical appraisal of the cause of the accident.

Time word '后' following the verb phrase.

尽管他竭力想亲自到场，但繁重的公务让他无法抽身。

Despite his best efforts to be present in person, heavy official duties made it impossible for him to get away.

Using '竭力' (strenuously) and '抽身' (to free oneself).

到场人数的激增，给现场的安保工作带来了巨大压力。

The surge in the number of people arriving at the scene put tremendous pressure on the on-site security work.

Nominalized phrase '到场人数' (number of attendees).

法院传唤证人到场，以核实关键证据的真实性。

The court summoned the witness to be present to verify the authenticity of key evidence.

Using '传唤' (summon) and '核实' (verify).

在那场历史性的会议上，各国首脑悉数到场。

At that historic meeting, the heads of state of all countries were present without exception.

Using '悉数' (all/completely) for formal emphasis.

他的缺席比他的到场更让人感到意外。

His absence was more surprising than his presence would have been.

Comparison between '缺席' (absence) and '到场' (presence).

在法律程序中，被告的到场是确保程序公正的基本前提。

In legal proceedings, the presence of the defendant is a basic prerequisite for ensuring procedural fairness.

Abstract usage of '到场' as a noun-like concept.

无论是在物质层面还是精神层面，这种“到场”都具有深远的象征意义。

Whether at the physical or spiritual level, this 'presence' carries profound symbolic significance.

Philosophical exploration of the term '到场'.

导演的亲自到场，无疑为这部低成本影片的宣传注入了强心剂。

The director's personal presence undoubtedly injected a shot in the arm for the promotion of this low-budget film.

Metaphorical use of '强心剂' (shot in the arm/stimulant).

在数字化生存的今天，物理意义上的“到场”正经历着前所未有的解构。

In today's digital existence, 'presence' in the physical sense is undergoing an unprecedented deconstruction.

Sociological commentary using academic language.

唯有在灾难发生的第一时间到场，方能体现政府对民众疾苦的关切。

Only by arriving at the scene the moment a disaster occurs can the government demonstrate its concern for the people's suffering.

Classical-style construction '唯有...方能...'.

即便他未曾言语，仅仅是他的到场，便足以平息这场无谓的纷争。

Even if he didn't say a word, his mere presence was enough to quell this pointless dispute.

Using '即便' (even if) and '足以' (sufficient to).

到场率的高低，往往被视为衡量一场公关活动成功与否的关键指标。

The attendance rate is often regarded as a key indicator for measuring the success of a public relations event.

Business analytical context.

在那种肃穆的氛围下，每一个人的到场都仿佛带有某种仪式感。

In that solemn atmosphere, everyone's arrival seemed to carry a certain sense of ritual.

Descriptive literary style focusing on '氛围' and '仪式感'.

Common Collocations

准时到场

亲自到场

未能到场

到场嘉宾

到场人数

第一时间到场

全部到场

要求到场

到场采访

到场祝贺

Common Phrases

感谢到场

— A polite way to thank people for coming.

感谢大家的到场支持。

按时到场

— Arriving at the scheduled time.

请大家按时到场开会。

必须到场

— Mandatory attendance.

明天的培训必须到场。

现场到场

— Redundant but used to emphasize being at the physical site.

他亲自现场到场指挥。

未见其人到场

— Used when someone was expected but hasn't appeared.

会议开始了，却未见其人到场。

到场证明

— Proof of attendance.

你需要提供到场证明。

到场支持

— Showing up to support someone.

谢谢你到场支持我的演出。

到场协助

— Arriving to help out.

警察已到场协助处理。

到场观摩

— Arriving to observe and learn.

许多老师到场观摩这节公开课。

到场处理

— Arriving to handle a situation.

工作人员已到场处理故障。

Often Confused With

到场 vs 在场

'在场' means being there (state), while '到场' means arriving there (action).

到场 vs 到位

'到位' means reaching a standard or position, often used for money or staff logistics.

到场 vs 出席

'出席' implies formal participation as a member or guest of honor.

Idioms & Expressions

"躬逢其盛"

— To be personally present at a grand occasion.

能到场躬逢其盛，我感到很荣幸。

Very Formal

"亲临现场"

— To go to the scene in person (often for leaders).

领导亲临现场视察工作。

Formal

"缺席审判"

— Trial in absentia (when someone doesn't 到场).

法院对他进行了缺席审判。

Legal

"高朋满座"

— A house full of distinguished guests (who have 到场).

今日婚礼高朋满座，非常热闹。

Literary

"不请自来"

— To arrive without being invited.

他今天竟然不请自来地到场了。

Neutral

"如约而至"

— To arrive as promised/scheduled.

客人们都如约而至，准时到场。

Literary

"姗姗来迟"

— To be late in arriving.

他总是姗姗来迟，最后才到场。

Literary

"不期而遇"

— To meet unexpectedly (at a scene).

我们在画展上不期而遇，都到场了。

Neutral

"座无虚席"

— No empty seats (because everyone 到场).

讲座现场座无虚席。

Literary

"首当其冲"

— To be the first to bear the brunt (often the first to 到场).

消防员首当其冲，最先到场。

Neutral

Easily Confused

到场 vs 入场

Both involve entering a space.

'入场' is specifically the act of going inside through a gate/door, while '到场' is the general arrival at the event location.

观众正在入场，运动员已经到场了。

到场 vs 现场

They share the character '场'.

'现场' is a noun meaning 'the scene' or 'on-site', while '到场' is a verb.

他在现场到场指挥。

到场 vs 到来

Both mean arrival.

'到来' is more abstract and often used for time or seasons (e.g., spring's arrival). '到场' is for physical events.

春天到来了，朋友们也到场参加聚会了。

到场 vs 临场

Both relate to being at a scene.

'临场' usually refers to performance under pressure or right at the moment of action (e.g., '临场发挥').

他到场后，临场发挥得很好。

到场 vs 现身

Both involve appearing.

'现身' has a nuance of making an appearance after being hidden or expected.

大明星终于在发布会现身到场了。

Sentence Patterns

S + 到场 + 了

他到场了。

请 + S + 准时 + 到场

请大家准时到场。

S + 亲自 + 到场 + V

他亲自到场支持。

S + 没能 + 到场

我没能到场。

到场 + 人数 + V

到场人数很多。

S + 第一时间 + 到场

警察第一时间到场。

S + 悉数 + 到场

嘉宾们悉数到场。

S + 的到场 + V

他的到场具有重要意义。

Word Family

Nouns

场地 (chǎngdì) - venue

场所 (chǎngsuǒ) - place

场景 (chǎngjǐng) - scene

场面 (chǎngmiàn) - occasion

Verbs

到达 (dàodá) - arrive

到账 (dàozhàng) - (money) arrive in account

场开 (chǎngkāi) - open up

Adjectives

大场面 (dà chǎngmiàn) - grand

到位的 (dàowèi de) - thorough

在场

出席

入场

退场

缺席

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in both spoken and written Chinese.

Common Mistakes

Using '到场' as 'to attend' with an object. → 他出席了会议。 (He attended the meeting.)
'到场' is intransitive. You cannot say '到场会议'.
Confusing '到场' with '在场'. → 我当时在场。 (I was there at the time.)
'在场' is a state; '到场' is an arrival action.
Using '到场' for general arrival at home. → 我到家了。 (I arrived home.)
'到场' implies an event or scene, not just a personal destination.
Using '到场' for packages or news. → 包裹到了。 (The package arrived.)
'到场' is generally for people appearing at a venue.
Using '到场' for abstract 'arrival' of time. → 春天到了。 (Spring has arrived.)
'到场' is physical. Use '到来' or '到了' for time/seasons.

Tips

Avoid Direct Objects

Never say '到场 [Event]'. Instead, say '到场参加 [Event]' or just '[Event] 已经到场了'.

Show Respect

Use '亲自到场' when talking about a superior or elder to show you value their presence.

Pair with Adverbs

Strengthen your sentences by using '准时' (on time), '已经' (already), or '未能' (failed to) with '到场'.

Professional Use

In a business email, '届时到场' is a polite and professional way to say 'be there at that time'.

News Keywords

When listening to news about emergencies, '第一时间到场' is a key phrase to identify.

Action vs State

Remember that '到场' is the movement of arriving. If you are already there, use '在场'.

Formal Invites

Use '欢迎到场' in your invitations to make them sound more welcoming and official.

Check Attendance

Ask '谁还没到场？' (Who hasn't arrived yet?) to sound like a natural event organizer.

Mianzi (Face)

In China, '到场' is often more about the social gesture of showing up than the actual participation.

Compound Recognition

Break the word into 'Arrival' + 'Venue' to quickly recall the meaning in new contexts.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Dào' as a 'Door' you enter, and 'Chǎng' as the 'CHAnnel' or 'CHAnge' of scene you find inside. You go through the door to the scene.

Visual Association

Imagine a red carpet event. The celebrity steps out of the car (到) and onto the carpeted scene (场).

Word Web

Venue Arrival Attendance Meeting Wedding Scene Witness On-time

Challenge

Try to use '到场' in three different scenarios today: a fake meeting invitation, a story about a fire truck, and a thank-you note to a guest.

Word Origin

The term is a combination of '到' (to arrive) and '场' (field/scene). Historically, '场' referred to threshing floors or ritual grounds where collective activities took place.

Original meaning: To arrive at the gathering ground.

Sino-Tibetan (Mandarin Chinese)

Cultural Context

Be careful when using it for funerals; ensure the tone is appropriately somber, often paired with '吊唁' (diàoyàn - to offer condolences).

In English, we often say 'show up' or 'be there.' '到场' is slightly more formal, similar to 'be present' or 'attend.'

Commonly heard in CCTV news reports about national leaders. Used in the movie 'The Banquet' (夜宴) regarding court attendance. Frequent in sports commentary during the Olympics in Beijing.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meetings

准时到场
亲自到场
到场参加
未能到场

Social Events

欢迎到场
到场祝贺
到场支持
感谢到场

Emergency/News

第一时间到场
警察到场
到场处理
到场救援

Legal

到场作证
必须到场
未到场
到场记录

Sports/Entertainment

入场
到场人数
现身
到场观摩

Conversation Starters

"你觉得明天的活动会有多少人到场？"

"如果老板亲自到场，你会紧张吗？"

"你通常会准时到场还是会迟到一点？"

"有哪些重要场合你觉得必须亲自到场？"

"你有没有过因为没能到场而感到遗憾的经历？"

Journal Prompts

描述一次你准时到场却发现空无一人的经历。

写一封信，向一位未能到场参加你生日的朋友表达遗憾。

讨论在现代社会，物理到场是否比视频参加更重要。

想象你是一个记者，报道一场有很多名人到场的慈善晚宴。

记录一次你第一次到场参加大型比赛时的心情。

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It's a bit too formal for a casual coffee with one friend. You should just use '到' or '来'. Use '到场' for organized events.

No, '到场' is almost exclusively used for people or groups (like teams or police). For packages, use '送到' or '到货'.

'到达' is general (reach a city, a station). '到场' is specific to an event or a 'scene' (a meeting, a fire site).

No, '到场' doesn't take an object. You can say '到我家' or '在我家到场' (if your house is the event venue).

Yes, it's very common in group chats for organizing events or confirming you've arrived at a meeting point.

The term is '到场率' (dàochǎng lǜ).

'场' represents a field or venue, emphasizing that the arrival is at a specific place of action.

No, it is intransitive. You don't '到场' something; you '到场' *at* something or to *do* something.

Technically no, as it implies physical presence. However, people sometimes use '云到场' (cloud arrival) as a joke or new term.

The most direct opposite is '缺席' (to be absent) or '未到场' (did not show up).