Processing keyword: 时候 (shíhòu) - Time/Moment

Mandarin Grammar Point: 时候 (shíhòu) - Time/Moment

时候 (shíhòu) - Time/Moment

1. Introduction

In Mandarin Chinese, 时候 (shíhòu) is an essential vocabulary term that means "time" or "moment." It is used to indicate a specific time or period when something happens. This grammar point is important for expressing time-related actions and discussing events.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Detailed Explanation

1. Meaning: The term 时候 refers to a specific moment or period. It can be used to denote both past and future times when actions occur.

2. Structure:

   • 时候 often follows a time expression.
   • It can also be used in conjunction with verbs to indicate when an action takes place.

Formation Diagram

[Time Expression] + 时候 (shíhòu)

For example:

• 早上 (zǎoshang) + 时候 → 早上时候 (zǎoshang shíhòu) "in the morning"
• 我 (wǒ) + 到 (dào) + 学校 (xuéxiào) + 的 (de) + 时候 → 我到学校的时候 (wǒ dào xuéxiào de shíhòu) "when I arrive at school"

Visual Aids

Time Expression	Example
早上 (zǎoshang)	早上时候 (in the morning)
下午 (xiàwǔ)	下午时候 (in the afternoon)
昨天 (zuótiān)	昨天时候 (yesterday)
明天 (míngtiān)	明天时候 (tomorrow)
这个时候 (zhège shíhòu)	at this moment

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with 纪念 (jìniàn) and 当 (dāng)

• 时候 (shíhòu): Indicates a specific moment or period.
• 纪念 (jìniàn): Refers more to memorializing a date rather than indicating a period.
• 当 (dāng): Means "when" and is more often used in sentences to specify the time of an action occurring without the emphasis on duration that 时候 (shíhòu) may suggest.

4. Examples in Context

• Formal:
  • 请告诉我你什么时候到。
    (Qǐng gàosu wǒ nǐ shénme shíhòu dào.)
    "Please tell me when you will arrive."
• Informal:
  • 我们晚上一起吃饭，那个时候再聊。
    (Wǒmen wǎnshàng yīqǐ chīfàn, nàgè shíhòu zài liáo.)
    "We will have dinner together tonight, and we can chat then."
• Written:
  • 他在我明天出发的时候打电话。
    (Tā zài wǒ míngtiān chūfā de shíhòu dǎ diànhuà.)
    "He called me when I was leaving tomorrow."
• Spoken:
  • 你什么时候有空？
    (Nǐ shénme shíhòu yǒu kòng?)
    "When are you free?"

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Chinese culture, being punctual and aware of time is highly valued, particularly in formal settings. Using 时候 correctly can reflect a respect for the other person’s time and commitments.

Levels of Politeness

Using phrases like “请告诉我你什么时候...” (Qǐng gàosu wǒ nǐ shénme shíhòu...) shows politeness by using 请 (qǐng) or "please," which is important in maintaining formal relationships.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 再说一次 (zài shuō yīcì): "Say it once more" can use 时候 as in:
  • 有时间的时候我再说一次。
    (Yǒu shíjiān de shíhòu wǒ zài shuō yīcì.)
    "When I have time, I will say it again."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Common Mistake: Confusing的时候 (shíhòu) with 时候 (shíhòu) in casual conversation, often leading to unclear temporal references.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Associate the word “moment” with 时候 (shíhòu) by visualizing a clock pointing at a specific hour and think of events tied to that time.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 时候 (shíhòu) means "time" or "moment."
• It indicates a specific period and is important for clarity in conversation.
• It can follow time expressions or be used with verbs.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What does 时候 (shíhòu) mean?
2. Can 时候 (shíhòu) be used with past and future events? (Yes/No)
3. Create a sentence using 时候 (shíhòu) to describe what you do in the morning. By understanding and using 时候 (shíhòu) effectively, you can greatly enhance your ability to communicate about time in Mandarin.