You can use the word "不时" (bù shí) to say that something happens often or from time to time.
For example, you might say "我不时去公园散步" (wǒ bù shí qù gōng yuán sàn bù), which means "I frequently go to the park for a walk."
It's similar to saying "often" or "sometimes" in English, but it emphasizes a recurring action without being constant.
You can use "不时" to describe habits or events that happen with some regularity but not all the time.
When you want to express that something happens frequently, often, or from time to time, use the adverb 不时 (bù shí). It literally translates to 'not on time' or 'not at a specific time,' which is why it conveys the meaning of something happening irregularly but repeatedly.
For example, if you say '他会不时来我家' (Tā huì bù shí lái wǒ jiā), it means 'He comes to my house from time to time.' Another example is '我妈妈不时会给我打电话' (Wǒ māma bù shí huì gěi wǒ dǎ diànhuà), meaning 'My mom frequently calls me.'
It's a useful phrase to describe actions or events that occur with some regularity but without a strict schedule.
When you want to express that something happens on a regular basis, but not necessarily all the time, you can use 不时 (bù shí). This adverb indicates that an action or event occurs frequently, often, or from time to time. Think of it as a way to say 'every now and then' or 'often.' For example, if someone often checks their phone, you could say他们不时看手机 (tāmen bù shí kàn shǒu jī). It’s a useful phrase to describe recurring actions without implying constant repetition.
When you want to express that something happens on a regular basis, but not necessarily all the time, you can use 不时.
It's an adverb, so it comes before the verb.
Think of it as 'from time to time' or 'frequently.'
It implies a certain degree of regularity or recurrence.
When using 不时 (bù shí) at a C2 level, you can elevate your expression beyond simply stating frequency. Instead of just saying something happens often, 不时 can imply a more nuanced idea of recurrence, often unexpectedly or intermittently. Think of it as conveying a sense of things happening 'now and then' or 'every so often,' adding a touch of spontaneity or irregularity to the action. It's a subtle way to show that while an event is recurrent, it doesn't necessarily follow a strict schedule. This allows for more vivid and natural descriptions of ongoing situations.
Okay, let's look at how to use 不时 (bù shí) in a sentence. This adverb means "frequently," "often," or "from time to time." It's pretty straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind to use it naturally.
§ Basic Placement of 不时
不时 usually goes before the verb or verb phrase it modifies. Think of it like "often" or "frequently" in English. It tells you how often something happens.
他不时会来我家玩。
- Translation hint
- He frequently comes to my house to play.
她开车时不时看一眼后视镜。
- Translation hint
- When she drives, she from time to time glances at the rearview mirror.
§ 不时 with Actions or Events
You can use 不时 to describe actions that happen repeatedly, but not necessarily continuously. It implies a certain irregularity, hence "from time to time."
会议中，他不时提出问题。
- Translation hint
- During the meeting, he frequently asked questions.
孩子们在公园里不时发出笑声。
- Translation hint
- The children in the park from time to time burst into laughter.
§ Distinguishing 不时 from Other Frequency Adverbs
While 不时 means "often" or "frequently," it's not as strong as always (总是 - zǒngshì) or very often (经常 - jīngcháng). It's more like "every now and then" or "occasionally" but with a higher frequency than just "sometimes" (有时候 - yǒushíhou).
- 总是 (zǒngshì): Always, without exception.
- 经常 (jīngcháng): Often, regularly, more frequent than 不时.
- 不时 (bù shí): Frequently, from time to time, but with some intervals.
- 有时候 (yǒushíhou): Sometimes, occasionally.
他不时会给我发信息，问我最近怎么样。
- Translation hint
- He frequently sends me messages to ask how I've been recently.
Here, "frequently" or "from time to time" fits well. It's not every day, but it happens enough to be notable.
§ 不时 in Descriptions
You can also use 不时 to describe things that happen repeatedly in a scene or setting, adding a sense of liveliness or continuous but intermittent action.
海边不时有海鸥飞过。
- Translation hint
- Seagulls fly by the beach from time to time.
夜晚的森林里，不时传来动物的叫声。
- Translation hint
- In the night forest, animal calls come from time to time.
So, to wrap it up: 不时 is a useful adverb for expressing frequency that's more than occasional but less than constant. Place it before the verb, and you're good to go. Keep practicing, and you'll get the feel for it!
§ What 不时 means
So, you've heard the word 不时 (bù shí). It's an adverb and you'll come across it quite a bit. It basically means 'frequently', 'often', or 'from time to time'. Think of it as something that happens repeatedly, but not necessarily all the time or with a super strict schedule. It's more about regularity than constant action.
- Definition
- frequently; often; from time to time
§ Where you'll hear 不时 at work
In a work setting, you'll hear 不时 when people talk about recurring tasks or issues. It's a useful word to describe things that pop up without being a constant problem.
- Meetings: Someone might say they "不时" check their email, meaning they check it often, but not every single second.
- Project updates: You might hear that a certain issue "不时" comes up in a project, meaning it's a recurring bug or problem.
- Communication: Your boss might say they "不时" communicate with a client, indicating regular but not constant contact.
他不时会检查一下邮件。
这个软件不时会出现一些小问题。
§ Using 不时 in school
At school, 不时 is great for talking about study habits, class activities, or even things happening on campus. It helps describe actions that aren't constant but happen with some frequency.
- Study habits: A student might say they "不时" review their notes, meaning they go over them regularly, but not all the time.
- Class discussions: You might hear that the teacher "不时" asks questions to engage students.
- Campus events: Information about events that "不时" happen on campus means they're not daily, but they do occur often.
我不时会去图书馆看书。
老师在课堂上不时提问。
§ Hearing 不时 in the news
News reports often use 不时 to describe events that recur, but aren't constant. This is especially true for things like weather patterns, economic trends, or social issues.
- Weather reports: You might hear about an area that "不时" experiences rain, meaning it rains often there.
- Economic news: Reports might mention that the stock market "不时" fluctuates, indicating regular ups and downs.
- Social commentary: You could hear that certain social issues "不时" arise in public discourse.
该地区不时有小地震发生。
新闻中不时报道这些问题。
§ Don't confuse 不时 with 有时 (yǒu shí)
Many learners mix up 不时 (bù shí) with 有时 (yǒu shí). While both relate to time and frequency, their meanings are distinct. 不时 means "frequently," "often," or "from time to time" in the sense of something happening repeatedly and somewhat regularly, or even very often. Think of it as a higher frequency than just "sometimes."
他不时会来我家喝茶。(Tā bù shí huì lái wǒ jiā hē chá.) – He often comes to my house for tea.
On the other hand, 有时 (yǒu shí) simply means "sometimes." It implies a lower, more occasional frequency. It's not about regularity or being often, just that it happens at some points in time.
我有时会去公园散步。(Wǒ yǒu shí huì qù gōngyuán sànbù.) – I sometimes go for a walk in the park.
§ Using 不时 as a noun
不时 is an adverb. It modifies verbs, telling you how often something happens. It is NOT a noun and cannot be used to refer to a specific time or instance. You won't say "the 不时" of something. It's always about the frequency of an action.
- Correct Usage
- 他不时地咳嗽。(Tā bù shí de ké sou.) – He coughs frequently.
- Incorrect Usage
- 这个不时很麻烦。(Zhège bù shí hěn máfan.) – This frequently is troublesome. (Incorrect, as "frequently" is an adverb, not a noun here.)
If you need a noun related to time or occasion, you would use other words like 时候 (shí hou - time/moment) or 机会 (jī huì - opportunity).
§ Placement of 不时 in sentences
As an adverb, 不时 usually comes before the verb it modifies, or after the subject. It rarely comes at the very end of a sentence unless it's part of a specific structural pattern for emphasis, which is more advanced.
- Subject + 不时 + Verb + Object
- 不时 + Subject + Verb + Object (less common but possible for emphasis)
孩子们不时在院子里玩耍。(Hái zimen bù shí zài yuànzi lǐ wánshuǎ.) – The children frequently play in the yard.
Avoid placing it in awkward positions that break the natural flow of Chinese sentence structure. If it feels clunky, it's probably wrong.
§ Overusing 不时 when other adverbs are more precise
While 不时 is useful, Chinese has a rich vocabulary for frequency. Don't fall into the trap of using 不时 for every instance of something happening "often." Consider alternatives if they better convey the nuance:
- 经常 (jīng cháng): More general "often," "regularly."
- 常常 (cháng cháng): Similar to 经常, a bit more casual.
- 时常 (shí cháng): Implies "often" or "frequently," similar to 不时.
- 屡次 (lǚ cì): Emphasizes "repeatedly," especially for negative actions or events.
他经常加班。(Tā jīng cháng jiābān.) – He often works overtime. (Here, 经常 might feel more natural than 不时 if it's a very regular occurrence.)
§ Understanding 不时
- Definition
- frequently; often; from time to time
不时 (bù shí) is an adverb. It means 'frequently', 'often', or 'from time to time'. It describes actions or events that happen repeatedly, but not necessarily regularly or predictably. Think of it as 'every now and then' or 'at intervals'.
他不时会发一些有趣的照片。
Translation hint: He frequently posts some interesting photos.
会议期间，她不时看表。
Translation hint: During the meeting, she often looked at her watch.
§ Similar words and when to use 不时 vs alternatives
When learning '不时', you'll naturally wonder how it compares to other words that mean 'often' or 'frequently'. Let's break down the differences so you know exactly when to use each one.
常常 (chángcháng) / 经常 (jīngcháng): These are probably the most common words for 'often' or 'frequently' in Chinese. They suggest a high frequency and a regular pattern. If something happens many times and is somewhat expected, you use 常常 or 经常.
他常常去健身房。
Translation hint: He often goes to the gym. (Implies a regular habit)
我经常在图书馆学习。
Translation hint: I frequently study in the library. (Implies a regular occurrence)
不时 (bù shí): As we've discussed, 不时 means 'frequently' or 'from time to time', but it often carries a nuance of irregularity or spontaneity. The occurrences are frequent, but there might not be a fixed schedule or expectation. It's more about things happening 'now and then' or 'every so often' rather than a steady routine.
他开车时不时会看一眼后视镜。
Translation hint: When driving, he frequently glances at the rearview mirror. (These glances are repeated but not on a strict schedule.)
窗外不时传来鸟叫声。
Translation hint: Bird calls from time to time came from outside the window. (The calls are repeated but not in a fixed pattern.)
偶尔 (ǒu'ěr): This word means 'occasionally' or 'once in a while'. It implies a low frequency and irregularity. If something happens only a few times and is not common, use 偶尔.
我偶尔会吃甜点。
Translation hint: I occasionally eat dessert. (Low frequency)
In summary, think of it as a spectrum of frequency:
- 常常 / 经常: High frequency, regular, expected.
- 不时: Moderate to high frequency, somewhat irregular, 'every now and then'.
- 偶尔: Low frequency, irregular, 'once in a while'.
How Formal Is It?
"他不时在国际会议上发表重要讲话。"
"我妈妈不时会给我打电话问我过得怎么样。"
"下雨天我膝盖不时会痛。"
"小狗不时会摇摇尾巴。"
难度评级
Two common characters.
Two common characters.
Clear pronunciation, two syllables.
Common sound combination.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
Use 不时 to describe actions that happen frequently or repeatedly without a fixed pattern. It can modify verbs or verb phrases directly.
他 不时 看看 手表。(He frequently checks his watch.)
不时 can be placed before the verb or at the beginning of a clause to indicate an action that occurs from time to time.
不时 地下雨，让人很不舒服。(It rains from time to time, which makes people uncomfortable.)
When 不时 is followed by 地 (de), it emphasizes the manner of the action, suggesting it happens intermittently or occasionally.
她 不时 地 咳嗽。(She coughs from time to time.)
Do not confuse 不时 with 总是 (zǒngshì, always) or 经常 (jīngcháng, often), which imply a higher frequency or regularity. 不时 suggests a less predictable, more intermittent occurrence.
他 不时 来我家玩。(He comes to my house to play from time to time.) (Not: 他 总是 来我家玩 - He always comes to my house to play.)
不时 can also be used in more formal contexts to describe recurring events or phenomena.
火山 不时 喷发。(The volcano erupts from time to time.)
按水平分级的例句
他不时不来学校。
He often doesn't come to school.
我妈妈不时给我打电话。
My mom frequently calls me.
我们不时去这家饭店吃饭。
We often go to this restaurant to eat.
她不时会问我问题。
She asks me questions from time to time.
商店不时有折扣。
The store often has discounts.
他开车不时很快。
He drives quickly from time to time.
我弟弟不时玩游戏。
My younger brother often plays games.
他们不时来我家。
They come to my house frequently.
他不时来我家玩。
He often comes to my house to play.
不时 is placed before the verb.
我妈妈不时给我打电话。
My mom frequently calls me.
不时 modifies the verb '打电话' (to call).
教室里不时传来笑声。
Laughter often comes from the classroom.
不时 indicates regularity of the action.
她不时去图书馆看书。
She goes to the library to read from time to time.
不时 implies a recurring action, not necessarily constant.
下雨天，他不时看看窗外。
On rainy days, he often looks out the window.
不时 can describe a repeated action over a period.
孩子们不时在公园里踢足球。
The children frequently play soccer in the park.
不时 shows the action happens many times.
我哥不时给我发信息。
My older brother often sends me messages.
不时 highlights the repetitive nature of sending messages.
老师不时问我们有没有问题。
The teacher frequently asks us if we have any questions.
不时 indicates the teacher's regular checking for understanding.
我妈妈不时给我打电话，问我最近怎么样。
My mom calls me frequently to ask how I've been recently.
不时 (bù shí) as an adverb comes before the verb or verb phrase.
他工作的时候不时会听音乐。
He often listens to music when he works.
不时 (bù shí) indicates a repetitive action happening at irregular intervals.
我们不时会去那家新开的咖啡馆。
We go to that new coffee shop from time to time.
不时 (bù shí) can be used to describe habits or regular occurrences.
虽然很忙，但我还是不时会和朋友见面。
Although I'm very busy, I still meet with friends from time to time.
不时 (bù shí) can be used with adverbs like '还是 (hái shì)' to emphasize continuation despite circumstances.
这家餐厅的菜单不时会更换。
This restaurant's menu changes frequently.
不时 (bù shí) can describe changes or updates that happen regularly.
他在网上不时分享一些学习中文的经验。
He often shares some experiences of learning Chinese online.
不时 (bù shí) can precede verbs related to sharing or communicating.
天气好的时候，不时能看到人们在公园里散步。
When the weather is good, you can often see people walking in the park.
不时 (bù shí) can be used to describe observations or common sights.
我的电脑不时会出现一些小问题。
My computer frequently has some minor issues.
不时 (bù shí) can be used to describe recurring problems or occurrences.
他不时地抬头看钟，似乎在焦急地等待下班。
He frequently looked up at the clock, seemingly anxious to get off work.
这只猫不时地跳上窗台，好奇地看着外面的世界。
This cat often jumps onto the windowsill, curiously observing the outside world.
在长途旅行中，我们不时会停下来欣赏路边的风景。
During long journeys, we occasionally stop to enjoy the roadside scenery.
她不时地在社交媒体上分享她的旅行照片，让朋友们羡慕不已。
She frequently shares her travel photos on social media, making her friends envious.
尽管工作很忙，他还是不时地抽出时间陪伴家人。
Despite his busy work schedule, he often makes time to spend with his family.
在讨论会上，他不时地提出一些深刻的见解，令人印象深刻。
During the discussion, he frequently offered profound insights, which was impressive.
这家咖啡馆不时地更换菜单，总能给顾客带来新鲜感。
This cafe often changes its menu, always bringing a sense of novelty to customers.
孩子们不时地发出欢快的笑声，给这个家带来了无限的生机。
The children frequently burst into joyful laughter, bringing endless vitality to this home.
常见搭配
常用短语
他不时来我家。
He comes to my house frequently.
我们不时会见面。
We meet from time to time.
她不时会唱歌。
She sings often.
我听到不时有鸟叫声。
I hear bird calls from time to time.
他不时会给我发信息。
He sends me messages frequently.
这家店不时会有折扣。
This store often has discounts.
我妈妈不时会做饭。
My mom cooks from time to time.
他不时会去旅行。
He travels frequently.
我们不时会讨论这个问题。
We discuss this issue from time to time.
他不时会犯同样的错误。
He often makes the same mistake.
语法模式
句型
不时 + Verb Phrase
我<b>不时</b>去图书馆看书。(I frequently go to the library to read books.)
Subj + 不时 + Verb
他<b>不时</b>咳嗽。(He coughs from time to time.)
不时 + 有 + Noun
公园里<b>不时</b>有孩子玩耍。(There are often children playing in the park.)
不时 + VP，VP
她<b>不时</b>唱歌，<b>不时</b>跳舞。(She sings from time to time and dances from time to time.)
Subj + 不时 + 会 + Verb
下雨天，我<b>不时</b>会感到很冷。(On rainy days, I often feel very cold.)
不时 + 的 + Noun
<b>不时</b>的细雨让地面湿滑。(The frequent drizzle made the ground slippery.)
不时 + 地 + Verb
他<b>不时</b>地看表。(He frequently looked at his watch.)
Subj + 不时 + 地 + Adj
她<b>不时</b>地很开心。(She is often very happy.)
如何使用
How to use 不时
不时 (bù shí) is an adverb that indicates something happens frequently, often, or from time to time. It implies a recurring action or event, but not necessarily continuous or constant. It can be used in a similar way to 'often' or 'frequently' in English, but sometimes with a nuance of 'sporadically' or 'every now and then'.
Placement:
- Before the verb: This is the most common placement.
Examples:
- 他不时会给我发信息。 (Tā bù shí huì gěi wǒ fā xìnxī.) - He frequently sends me messages. (He sends me messages often/from time to time.)
- 她不时去那家咖啡馆。 (Tā bù shí qù nà jiā kāfēiguǎn.) - She often goes to that coffee shop. (She goes to that coffee shop from time to time.)
Common contexts:
- Describing habits or recurring actions.
- Indicating events that happen at irregular intervals.
Examples:
- 会议期间，他不时看表。 (Huìyì qíjiān, tā bù shí kàn biǎo.) - During the meeting, he frequently looked at his watch. (He looked at his watch from time to time.)
- 外面不时传来狗叫声。 (Wàimiàn bù shí chuán lái gǒu jiào shēng.) - Dog barking sounds came from outside from time to time. (Dog barking sounds often came from outside.)
Common Mistakes with 不时
1. Confusing 不时 with 经常 (jīngcháng) or 常常 (chángcháng):
While all three can mean 'often' or 'frequently', 不时 emphasizes the 'from time to time' or 'sporadic' nature more than 经常 or 常常, which suggest a higher degree of regularity or continuity.
Wrong: 我不时去健身房，所以身体很好。(Wǒ bù shí qù jiànshēnfáng, suǒyǐ shēntǐ hěn hǎo.) - I from time to time go to the gym, so my body is very good. (Implies sporadic visits which wouldn't lead to a very good body.)
Right: 我经常去健身房，所以身体很好。(Wǒ jīngcháng qù jiànshēnfáng, suǒyǐ shēntǐ hěn hǎo.) - I often go to the gym, so my body is very good. (Implies regular visits.)
Right: 下雨天，他不时会迟到。 (Xiàyǔ tiān, tā bù shí huì chídào.) - On rainy days, he from time to time is late. (Implies sporadic lateness on rainy days, not necessarily every time.)
2. Using 不时 to mean 'not timely' or 'untimely':
Despite having '不' (bù) and '时' (shí), 不时 does not mean 'not on time' or 'untimely'. It's purely an adverb of frequency.
Wrong: 他来的不时。 (Tā lái de bù shí.) - He came untimely. (This is incorrect usage.)
Right: 他来得不巧。 (Tā lái de bù qiǎo.) - He came at an inopportune time. (Use 不巧 (bù qiǎo) for inopportune timing.)
3. Overusing 不时 when a simpler adverb is sufficient:
Sometimes, a more direct adverb like 有时 (yǒushí) 'sometimes' or 偶尔 (ǒu'ěr) 'occasionally' might be more appropriate depending on the exact nuance you want to convey.
Example:
- 他不时会想家。 (Tā bù shí huì xiǎng jiā.) - He from time to time misses home. (This is correct.)
- 他有时会想家。 (Tā yǒushí huì xiǎng jiā.) - He sometimes misses home. (This is also correct and might be simpler if the nuance of 'from time to time' isn't crucial.)
小贴士
Basic Meaning of 不时
不时 (bù shí) means frequently, often, or from time to time. It indicates something happens repeatedly or at irregular intervals.
Using 不时 in a sentence
Place 不时 before the verb it modifies. For example: 他不时来我家玩。(Tā bù shí lái wǒ jiā wán.) - He often comes to my house to play.
不时 with 'sometimes'
While it can mean from time to time, it usually implies a higher frequency than 'occasionally'. Don't confuse it with 有时候 (yǒu shí hou) which means sometimes.
Example: Checking phone
我不时地看手机。(Wǒ bù shí de kàn shǒu jī.) - I frequently check my phone.
Example: Asking questions
她不时地问我问题。(Tā bù shí de wèn wǒ wèn tí.) - She often asks me questions.
Example: Visiting friends
我们不时去拜访朋友。(Wǒmen bù shí qù bài fǎng péngyǒu.) - We visit friends from time to time.
Don't confuse with 'never'
The 不 (bù) in 不时 means 'not' but in this compound word, it's part of an idiom meaning frequently. It does not mean 'never'.
不时 and 经常 (jīng cháng)
不时 is similar to 经常 (jīng cháng), which also means often. 不时 can imply more irregularity or a less consistent pattern than 经常.
不时 with 'de' (的)
You can add 的 (de) after 不时, like 不时地, to emphasize its adverbial function. Both 不时 and 不时地 are correct. For example: 他不时地会迟到。(Tā bù shí de huì chí dào.) - He often comes late.
Practice saying it
Try saying 不时 (bù shí) out loud several times. Associate it with activities you do frequently in your daily life.
在生活中练习
真实语境
Describing regular activities or occurrences.
- 我妈妈不时会给我打电话。 (My mom frequently calls me.)
- 他工作很忙，但不时会抽空陪孩子。 (He's busy with work, but often makes time for his kids.)
- 这家餐厅不时会推出新菜。 (This restaurant often introduces new dishes.)
Talking about things that happen intermittently or sporadically.
- 我最近不时会头疼。 (I've been having headaches from time to time recently.)
- 我们这里不时会下雨。 (It rains here from time to time.)
- 他旅游的时候，不时会发照片到朋友圈。 (When he travels, he frequently posts photos to WeChat Moments.)
Emphasizing the regularity or frequency of an action.
- 她不时会去健身房锻炼。 (She frequently goes to the gym to exercise.)
- 我的狗不时会叫几声。 (My dog often barks a few times.)
- 老师不时会提醒我们交作业。 (The teacher frequently reminds us to hand in homework.)
Discussing things that happen without a fixed schedule.
- 他喜欢一个人独处，不时会去公园散步。 (He likes to be alone, and often goes for walks in the park.)
- 我们不时会一起出去吃饭。 (We often go out to eat together.)
- 她不时会给流浪猫喂食。 (She frequently feeds stray cats.)
Referring to unexpected but recurring events.
- 这座城市不时会发生小地震。 (This city experiences small earthquakes from time to time.)
- 这家公司不时会遇到一些技术难题。 (This company frequently encounters some technical problems.)
- 不时会有游客问我路。 (From time to time, tourists ask me for directions.)
对话开场白
"你最近不时会做些什么来放松自己？ (What do you often do to relax recently?)"
"你住的地方不时会发生什么有趣的事情？ (What interesting things often happen where you live?)"
"你和朋友不时会一起做什么活动？ (What activities do you and your friends often do together?)"
"在你的工作中，不时会有什么挑战？ (What challenges often arise in your work?)"
"你觉得学生不时会遇到哪些学习上的困难？ (What learning difficulties do you think students often encounter?)"
日记主题
描述你一天中不时会做的三件事，并解释为什么。 (Describe three things you frequently do in a day, and explain why.)
写一篇关于你生活中不时会发生的小惊喜或小意外的日记。 (Write a journal entry about small surprises or unexpected events that happen from time to time in your life.)
思考一个你认识的人，他们不时会做些什么让你印象深刻的事情？ (Think about someone you know, what do they frequently do that leaves a deep impression on you?)
记录你最近不时会有的一种情绪，并分析它的原因。 (Record an emotion you've been feeling from time to time recently, and analyze its causes.)
想象一下十年后的自己，那时你生活中的“不时”会是什么？ (Imagine yourself ten years from now, what will be the 'frequently' in your life then?)
自我测试 90 个问题
她___去商店。
The sentence means 'She often goes to the store.' '不时' means often or frequently, which fits the context.
我___在公园跑步。
The sentence means 'I often run in the park.' '不时' indicates regularity or frequency.
他___给我打电话。
The sentence means 'He often calls me.' '不时' is the correct adverb to express frequency.
我们___一起吃饭。
The sentence means 'We often eat together.' '不时' implies 'from time to time' or 'frequently'.
她___看书。
The sentence means 'She often reads books.' '不时' appropriately conveys 'often' or 'from time to time'.
他___来我家。
The sentence means 'He often comes to my house.' '不时' expresses the frequency of his visits.
Choose the correct translation for '不时':
'不时' means frequently or often.
Which sentence uses '不时' correctly?
'不时' is an adverb that means 'often' or 'frequently'. It is typically used before a verb.
If someone '不时' watches TV, what does that mean?
'不时' indicates a frequent action.
The sentence '她 不时 去 商店' means she never goes to the store.
'不时' means frequently, so she goes to the store often, not never.
You can use '不时' to describe something that happens often.
'不时' means frequently or often.
'不时' is a verb.
'不时' is an adverb, meaning frequently or often.
Write a short sentence about something you do frequently, using 不时.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我 不时 去 商店 买 东西. (I frequently go to the store to buy things.)
Describe a friend's hobby, saying they do it from time to time, using 不时.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他 不时 听 音乐. (He listens to music from time to time.)
Write a sentence about something you see often, using 不时.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我 不时 看见 狗. (I often see dogs.)
小猫 喜欢 做 什么?
Read this passage:
小猫 不时 玩. 它 喜欢 玩 球.
小猫 喜欢 做 什么?
The passage says '小猫 不时 玩' which means 'The kitten frequently plays'.
The passage says '小猫 不时 玩' which means 'The kitten frequently plays'.
她 不时 去 哪里?
Read this passage:
她 不时 去 公园. 她 在 公园 散步.
她 不时 去 哪里?
The passage states '她 不时 去 公园', meaning 'She frequently goes to the park'.
The passage states '她 不时 去 公园', meaning 'She frequently goes to the park'.
他 不时 做 什么?
Read this passage:
他 不时 学习. 他 想 学 中文.
他 不时 做 什么?
The passage says '他 不时 学习', which translates to 'He frequently studies'.
The passage says '他 不时 学习', which translates to 'He frequently studies'.
他___会给我打电话。
Here, '不时' means 'frequently' or 'often', indicating he calls from time to time.
她喜欢在公园里___散步。
'不时' fits here to say she likes to take walks in the park from time to time.
我___去咖啡馆看书。
'不时' means 'from time to time', which fits the context of going to a cafe to read.
下雨的时候，她___打开伞。
When it rains, she opens her umbrella from time to time.
孩子们___在花园里玩耍。
The children play in the garden from time to time.
我们___见面，聊聊天。
We meet and chat from time to time.
Listen for '不时' and understand the frequency of going to the supermarket.
Focus on '不时' and what the speaker frequently thinks about.
Pay attention to '不时' and what he often forgets on rainy days.
Read this aloud:
老师 不时 会 给 我们 讲 故事。
Focus: bù shí
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
她 不时 地 唱歌。
Focus: tā bù shí de chàng gē
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
我们 不时 地 见面。
Focus: wǒ men bù shí de jiàn miàn
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Choose the best word to complete the sentence: 他___去图书馆看书。
The sentence means 'He frequently goes to the library to read books.' '不时' fits this meaning best, implying 'from time to time' or 'often'.
Which of the following sentences uses '不时' correctly?
'不时' means 'frequently' or 'from time to time'. In the correct option, it implies he often meets old friends while walking in the park. The other options use '不时' incorrectly to convey 'sometimes' or 'every'.
Select the sentence that has a similar meaning to '她不时会给妈妈打电话。'
'不时' implies 'frequently' or 'often', which is similar to '经常' (jīngcháng - often).
'不时' means 'never'.
'不时' means 'frequently' or 'from time to time', not 'never'.
You can use '不时' to describe something that happens occasionally but not always.
'不时' conveys that an action occurs from time to time, or frequently, but not constantly.
The sentence '他每天不时跑步' is grammatically correct and natural.
'每天不时' is redundant and unnatural. If something happens '每天' (every day), it's already frequent. You would say '他每天跑步' or '他时不时跑步' (he runs from time to time) if not daily.
He often speeds when driving.
My mom calls me frequently.
This city frequently experiences small earthquakes.
Read this aloud:
她不时地去健身房。
Focus: 不时地 (bù shí de)
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
他不时会来拜访我们。
Focus: 拜访 (bài fǎng)
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
这家店不时会有折扣。
Focus: 折扣 (zhé kòu)
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Describe a place you like to visit frequently. Use '不时' in your description.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我喜欢去公园。天气好的时候，我都不时去那里散步。 (I like to go to the park. When the weather is good, I frequently go there for a walk.)
Write a short paragraph about an activity you do from time to time. Include the word '不时'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我喜欢看电影，所以我不时会去看新上映的电影。 (I like watching movies, so I frequently go to see newly released films.)
Imagine you are talking about your friend. Use '不时' to describe something they frequently do.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我的朋友很喜欢喝咖啡，所以他都不时去那家咖啡店。 (My friend really likes to drink coffee, so he frequently goes to that coffee shop.)
小明为什么喜欢去图书馆借书？
Read this passage:
小明喜欢读书。他平时工作很忙，但是他不时会去图书馆借书。他觉得读书可以让他放松。
小明为什么喜欢去图书馆借书？
文章中提到 '他觉得读书可以让他放松'。
文章中提到 '他觉得读书可以让他放松'。
妈妈什么时候会给“我”做热汤？
Read this passage:
天气冷的时候，妈妈不时会给我做热汤。她做的汤很好喝，让我感到很温暖。我非常喜欢妈妈做的汤。
妈妈什么时候会给“我”做热汤？
文章中明确提到 '妈妈不时会给我做热汤'。
文章中明确提到 '妈妈不时会给我做热汤'。
“我”为什么经常去这家商店？
Read this passage:
这家商店的商品质量很好，价格也很合理。我不时会去那里买东西。每次去都能找到我需要的东西。
“我”为什么经常去这家商店？
文章中说 '这家商店的商品质量很好，价格也很合理。'，所以“我”不时去那里。
文章中说 '这家商店的商品质量很好，价格也很合理。'，所以“我”不时去那里。
他工作很忙，但是___会给家里打电话。
不时 (bù shí) means 'frequently; often; from time to time', which fits the context of someone busy still calling home frequently. 有时 (yǒu shí) means 'sometimes', 总是 (zǒng shì) means 'always', 很少 (hěn shǎo) means 'rarely'.
这家咖啡馆___有现场音乐表演。
不时 (bù shí) means 'frequently; often; from time to time', indicating that the cafe often has live music. 曾经 (céng jīng) means 'once; in the past', 将来 (jiāng lái) means 'in the future', 从来 (cóng lái) means 'never (before)'.
我们___会在周末一起出去玩。
不时 (bù shí) implies 'from time to time', meaning they go out together often. 偶尔 (ǒu ěr) means 'occasionally', 经常 (jīng cháng) means 'often', 总是 (zǒng shì) means 'always'. '不时' is a good fit for a frequent but not constant activity.
他虽然退休了，但还是___关心时事。
不时 (bù shí) means 'frequently; often', showing his continuous interest in current affairs. 以前 (yǐ qián) means 'before', 偶尔 (ǒu ěr) means 'occasionally', 有时 (yǒu shí) means 'sometimes'.
公园里的花儿___绽放，景色宜人。
不时 (bù shí) means 'from time to time', suggesting flowers bloom frequently, making the scenery pleasant. 突然 (tū rán) means 'suddenly', 现在 (xiàn zài) means 'now', 一直 (yī zhí) means 'always; continuously'.
会议上，大家___提出自己的看法。
不时 (bù shí) means 'frequently; often', indicating that people frequently share their opinions in the meeting. 从不 (cóng bù) means 'never', 马上 (mǎ shàng) means 'immediately', 迟迟 (chí chí) means 'slowly; tardily'.
他工作很忙，但是_____会给家里打电话。
“不时” means frequently or often, which fits the context of someone busy but still calling home regularly. “有时” means sometimes, “总是” means always, and “偶尔” means occasionally, which are not as suitable.
这家餐厅的菜味道很好，我_____来这里吃饭。
“不时” means frequently or often, indicating regular visits due to good food. “从不” means never, “很少” means rarely, and “偶尔” means occasionally, which don't fit the positive sentiment.
下雨天，路上_____会看到有人打着伞。
“不时” means frequently or often, which is typical for seeing umbrellas on a rainy day. The other options express negation or impossibility.
她不时去图书馆，表示她很少去图书馆。
“不时” means frequently or often, so '不时去图书馆' means she often goes to the library, not rarely.
如果一个人不时地笑，说明他经常笑。
“不时” means frequently or often, so if someone '不时地笑', it means they laugh frequently.
“不时”可以用来形容一件事情发生的频率很低。
“不时” describes something happening frequently or often, not with low frequency.
Listen to the sentence about dangerous driving habits.
Listen to the sentence describing a smooth and joyful meeting.
Listen to the sentence about unexpected surprises during travel.
Read this aloud:
下雨天，他总是不时地望着窗外。
Focus: bù shí
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
她不时地提醒我注意安全。
Focus: tí xǐng
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
学生们不时地提出问题，课堂气氛很活跃。
Focus: huó yuè
你说的：
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The correct order is 'Subject + 不时 + 会 + Verb phrase'. In this case, '他' (he) is the subject, '不时' is the adverb, '会' (will) is an auxiliary verb, and '给我打电话问好' (call me to say hello) is the verb phrase. This means 'He frequently calls me to say hello.'
The correct order is 'Place + 不时 + 有 + Noun + Verb'. Here, '路上' (on the road) is the place, '不时' is the adverb, '有' (there are) introduces the noun '车辆' (vehicles), and '经过' (passing by) is the verb. This translates to 'Vehicles frequently pass by on the road.'
The correct order is 'Subject + 不时 + 会 + Prepositional phrase + Verb + Object'. '她' (she) is the subject, '不时' is the adverb, '会' (will) is an auxiliary verb, '在社交媒体上' (on social media) is the prepositional phrase, '分享' (share) is the verb, and '旅行照片' (travel photos) is the object. This means 'She frequently shares travel photos on social media.'
她___在课堂上提出一些很有见地的问题，让老师和同学们都受益匪浅。
‘不时’在这里表示她会时不时地提出问题，强调一种非规律性但反复发生的频率。
这座老房子___会发出一些奇怪的声音，让人感到有些不安。
‘不时’表达了老房子发出奇怪声音的间歇性，但具有一定的频率。
在繁忙的工作之余，他___会去郊外散步，放松身心。
‘不时’强调了他在工作间隙进行散步的频率，而不是规律性的行为。
会议上，主持人___打断发言者，以控制讨论的节奏。
‘不时’在此表示主持人会间或地打断发言，以调节会议进程，强调一种根据需要发生的行为。
由于天气变化无常，最近这里___有阵雨。
‘不时’准确地描述了阵雨发生的频率，即间歇性但并非罕见。
尽管工作很忙，她___会抽空给家人打电话，关心他们的近况。
‘不时’强调了她在忙碌中仍会间或地联系家人，表示一种不定期但持续的频率。
她___在课堂上提出有深度的问题。
“不时”在这里表示“常常，经常”，符合语境中“提出有深度的问题”这一行为的频率。'立即' (immediately) 和 '突然' (suddenly) 不符合语境，'偶尔' (occasionally) 与句意相反。
尽管工作很忙，他___会抽出时间陪伴家人。
“不时”表达的是“时常，经常”的意思，与“尽管工作很忙”形成对比，表示在这种情况下仍然会做某事，突出其频率。'从来' (always, all along) 和 '总是' (always) 表达的频率过高，'从不' (never) 与句意相反。
这个软件___会弹出一些广告，让人很烦。
“不时”表示“常常，经常”，用来形容广告弹出的频率，表达了频繁出现的烦恼。'一直' (always) 强调持续性，'偶尔' (occasionally) 和 '有时' (sometimes) 频率较低，不符合“让人很烦”这种强调频繁出现的语境。
“不时”可以用来形容一个事件发生的频率非常低。
“不时”表示的是“常常、经常、时常”，不是频率低。
当你说“他最近不时出差”，意思是说他最近经常出差。
“不时”表示“常常、经常”，所以“不时出差”就是经常出差。
如果一个人“不时”生病，说明他身体非常健康。
“不时生病”表示他常常生病，说明身体不健康。
This sentence describes someone frequently asking insightful questions in class. '不时' (bù shí) functions as an adverbial phrase meaning 'frequently' or 'often', placed before the verb '会提出' (huì tí chū - will raise).
Here, '不时' (bù shí) means 'from time to time' or 'often', indicating that humorous plots are frequently inserted into the movie. It precedes the verb '穿插' (chuān chā - intersperse).
This sentence emphasizes the need for regular reflection amidst busy work. '不时' (bù shí) means 'frequently' or 'from time to time', modifying the verb '需要' (xū yào - need).
/ 90 correct
Perfect score!
Basic Meaning of 不时
不时 (bù shí) means frequently, often, or from time to time. It indicates something happens repeatedly or at irregular intervals.
Using 不时 in a sentence
Place 不时 before the verb it modifies. For example: 他不时来我家玩。(Tā bù shí lái wǒ jiā wán.) - He often comes to my house to play.
不时 with 'sometimes'
While it can mean from time to time, it usually implies a higher frequency than 'occasionally'. Don't confuse it with 有时候 (yǒu shí hou) which means sometimes.
Example: Checking phone
我不时地看手机。(Wǒ bù shí de kàn shǒu jī.) - I frequently check my phone.
