noun HSK 4
Traditional 時刻
moment · time · constantly · at all times
Meaning
时刻 refers to a specific point in time or moment. It emphasizes the immediacy or importance of a particular time. When used as an adverb, it means 'constantly' or 'always,' indicating continuous action or state.
Usage
Native speakers use 时刻 in both formal and informal contexts. As a noun, it often appears in phrases describing important or memorable moments. As an adverb meaning 'always/constantly,' it typically appears before verbs to emphasize continuous attention or readiness, such as 时刻准备着 (always prepared).
Examples
- 01我们要时刻关注孩子的安全。.We must constantly pay attention to the children's safety.
- 02那是我一生中最难忘的时刻。.That was the most unforgettable moment of my life.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个难忘的时刻
Common collocations
- 关键时刻critical moment
- 时刻表timetable, schedule
- 时刻准备着always be prepared
- 时刻关注constantly pay attention to
Origin
Originally 刻 referred to marks carved on ancient sundials to measure time, with each 刻 representing 15 minutes. Combined with 时 (hour), 时刻 literally means 'hour and quarter-hour,' evolving to mean any specific moment in time.