A clock is a device used to tell and measure time, crucial for organizing daily life.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Device that tells time.
- Essential for daily scheduling.
- Found everywhere, from homes to public spaces.
Overview
时钟 (shízhōng) 是一个非常基础且常用的中文词汇，意为“clock”。它指的是一种显示当前时间的设备，无论是机械式的还是电子式的。在日常生活中，时钟扮演着至关重要的角色，帮助人们安排活动、掌握时间。
时钟主要作为一个名词使用，指代显示时间的仪器。它可以单独使用，也可以与其他词语组合，构成更具体的表达。例如，“挂钟”（wall clock）、“闹钟”（alarm clock）、“手表”（wristwatch，虽然字面意思不同，但功能相似）等。人们会谈论时钟的“走时”（running time）、“准确性”（accuracy）或“样式”（style）。
时钟在日常生活的各个场景都十分常见。在家里，我们看墙上的挂钟或床头柜上的闹钟。在办公室，桌子上可能放着一个时钟。在公共场所，如火车站、机场、学校等，也随处可见时钟。人们经常会问“现在几点了？”，这离不开对时钟的依赖。时钟也常出现在关于时间管理的讨论中。
与“时钟”相似的词语包括“表”（biǎo）和“钟表”（zhōngbiǎo）。“表”是一个更广泛的概念，可以指手表、怀表，甚至仪表盘上的指示器。“钟表”是“时钟”和“表”的总称，涵盖了所有报时装置。相对而言，“时钟”更特指固定在某处（如墙上或桌上）的报时器，而“表”则多指便携式的，如手表。
例如：
- 时钟 (shízhōng): 通常指挂在墙上或放在桌子上的钟。
- 表 (biǎo): 可以指手表 (shǒubiǎo)，也可以指其他仪表，如温度表 (wēndù biǎo)。
- 钟表 (zhōngbiǎo): 是一个更宽泛的词，包括时钟和各种表。
Examples
客厅的墙上挂着一个大时钟。
everydayA large clock hangs on the living room wall.
请确保将时钟拨快一小时。
formalPlease make sure to set the clock forward by one hour.
我的闹钟坏了，差点迟到。
informalMy alarm clock broke, and I was almost late.
该时钟的精确度达到了行业领先水平。
academicThe accuracy of this clock has reached industry-leading levels.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
现在几点了？
What time is it now?
对时钟
To set the clock (to the correct time)
时钟滴答作响
The clock is ticking
Often Confused With
While both relate to time, '表' (biǎo) is a broader term. It can refer to a wristwatch (手表 shǒubiǎo), pocket watch, or even an instrument like a thermometer (温度表 wēndù biǎo). '时钟' specifically denotes a clock, usually stationary.
'钟表' (zhōngbiǎo) is a general term encompassing both '时钟' (clocks) and '表' (watches/instruments). Think of it as the category name, while '时钟' and '表' are specific types within that category.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word '时钟' is a neutral term, suitable for most contexts, from casual conversation to more formal writing. It's a fundamental vocabulary item for anyone learning Chinese. Pay attention to context when distinguishing it from the broader term '表'.
Common Mistakes
Learners might sometimes use '表' when they specifically mean a wall or desk clock. Remember '时钟' is the most precise term for a clock. Also, avoid confusing '时钟' with other types of '表' like thermometers or pressure gauges.
Tips
Understand 'Clock' in Chinese
时钟 (shízhōng) is the most direct translation for 'clock'. Remember its core function: telling time.
Distinguish from 'Watch'
While both tell time, 时钟 usually refers to wall or desk clocks, whereas 'watch' (手表 shǒubiǎo) is worn on the wrist.
Time is Universal
Clocks are fundamental to modern life globally. Understanding 时钟 is key to discussing schedules and daily routines in Chinese.
Word Origin
The character '时' (shí) means 'time', 'moment', or 'season'. The character '钟' (zhōng) originally referred to a type of bell or chime, often used in ancient times to mark periods of the day. Thus, '时钟' literally means 'time bell/chime', evolving into the modern word for clock.
Cultural Context
In Chinese culture, like many others, clocks symbolize the passage of time and the importance of punctuality. Having a clock in the home is common, and discussions about time often revolve around the functionality and appearance of clocks.
Memory Tip
Think of '时' (shí) meaning 'time' and '钟' (zhōng) sounding like 'chime' (as in a grandfather clock). So, '时钟' literally helps you keep track of time with its chimes or display.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions“时钟”通常指固定在墙上或放在桌面上的报时装置。而“表”的范围更广，可以指手表（shǒubiǎo），也可以指其他仪表，如温度表。
“钟表”是一个总称，包括了“时钟”和各种“表”，泛指所有显示时间的装置。
“时钟”通常作名词使用，指代报时设备。例如，“墙上的时钟坏了。”或“请调整一下时钟的时间。”
有的，比如“挂钟”（wall clock）、“闹钟”（alarm clock）、“时钟指针”（clock hand）等。
Test Yourself
我需要买一个新______挂在客厅。
这里指挂在墙上的报时装置，用“时钟”最合适。
What is the Chinese word for "clock"?
“时钟”是“clock”最直接和常用的翻译，指显示时间的装置。
请用“时钟”造句。
这个句子结构完整，并且使用了“时钟”作为主语的一部分，描述了一个具体情况。
Score: /3
Summary
A clock is a device used to tell and measure time, crucial for organizing daily life.
- Device that tells time.
- Essential for daily scheduling.
- Found everywhere, from homes to public spaces.
Understand 'Clock' in Chinese
时钟 (shízhōng) is the most direct translation for 'clock'. Remember its core function: telling time.
Distinguish from 'Watch'
While both tell time, 时钟 usually refers to wall or desk clocks, whereas 'watch' (手表 shǒubiǎo) is worn on the wrist.
Time is Universal
Clocks are fundamental to modern life globally. Understanding 时钟 is key to discussing schedules and daily routines in Chinese.
Examples
4 of 4客厅的墙上挂着一个大时钟。
A large clock hangs on the living room wall.
请确保将时钟拨快一小时。
Please make sure to set the clock forward by one hour.
我的闹钟坏了，差点迟到。
My alarm clock broke, and I was almost late.
该时钟的精确度达到了行业领先水平。
The accuracy of this clock has reached industry-leading levels.
