Processing keyword: 当…时候 (dāng… shíhòu) - When...

Mandarin Grammar Point: 当…时候 (dāng… shíhòu) - When...

当...时候 (dāng... shíhòu) - When...

Introduction

The phrase 当...时候 (dāng... shíhòu) is commonly used in Mandarin to express the idea of "when" in a specific context. It is essential for discussing timings and situations.

Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

• Meaning: 本质上，"当...时候"表示在某个特定的时间或情况下发生某事，通常用于描述过去、现在或将来的事件。
• Structure:
  • The structure consists of "当" (dāng), followed by a specific event or situation, and then "时候" (shíhòu), which means "time" or "moment".
  • Formation: 当 + [Event/Situation] + 时候

Visual Aids

当 + [Situation/Event] + 时候

Comparative Analysis

Other ways to express "when" in Mandarin include:

• 在...的时候 (zài ... de shíhòu): Focuses on being at a certain time.
• 什么时候 (shénme shíhòu): A question form meaning "when".

  Phrase	Usage
  当...时候	Used for events (specific context)
  在...的时候	Often used for ongoing actions
  什么时候	Used to ask questions about time

Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. Formal: 当我们到达北京的时候，已经是晚上八点了。
   • Translation: When we arrived in Beijing, it was already eight o'clock in the evening.
2. Informal: 我们当时正在一起吃饭。
   • Translation: We were eating together at that time.
3. Written: 他们决定当经济危机发生的时候，采取措施。
   • Translation: They decided to take measures when the economic crisis occurred.
4. Spoken: 当你需要帮助的时候，随时可以找我。
   • Translation: Whenever you need help, feel free to come to me.

Cultural Notes

• Cultural Relevance: In Chinese culture, timing is often crucial, especially in formal settings such as business meetings or festivals.
• Levels of Politeness: The usage of precise language to indicate time reflects the importance of clarity in communication. Utilizing 当...时候 can provide a respectful and formal tone.

Idiomatic Expressions

• "当务之急" (dāngwù zhī jí) - Used to express something that is an urgent matter.
  This reflects urgency at a particular "time".

Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

Common mistakes include:

• Omitting 时候, which can lead to ambiguity.
• Confusing with 在...的时候 when the context doesn't require a focus on the ongoing nature of the event.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Remember the phrase "当时" (dāng shí) means "at that time"; adding 时候 just emphasizes it further.
• Tip: Practice forming sentences using 当...时候 in various contexts to solidify understanding.

Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• The phrase 当...时候 is a straightforward way to indicate "when" an event occurs.
• It is essential for clear communication regarding timings in both casual and formal contexts.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. How would you say "When I was a child" in Mandarin using this structure?
   • Answer: 当我还是孩子的时候 (dāng wǒ hái shì háizi de shíhòu)
2. What is the difference between 当...时候 and 什么时候?
   • Answer: 当...时候 is used to refer to specific events while 什么时候 asks about time.
3. Create a sentence using 当...时候 in a formal context.
   • Example: 当会议开始的时候，请保持安静。