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March 24, 2026
按时(按時)ànshí(an4shi2)
The term '按时' means 'on time' or 'according to schedule.' It is commonly used in contexts such as work deadlines, appointments, or any situation where punctuality is important. Using this term implies that something is happening as planned without delays.
Frequency#6713DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, punctuality is highly valued, especially in business and social settings. Being '按时' reflects respect for others' time and can influence one's reputation in professional contexts.
Memory Tip
Imagine a clock that '按' (to press) the '时' (time) button to ensure everything runs smoothly on schedule. Picture yourself pressing the button to start a meeting exactly at the right moment, symbolizing promptness.
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AI Study Notes for 按时
Quick Contrast
准时 (zhǔnshí) - use '按时' when emphasizing adherence to a schedule, while '准时' focuses more on being punctual without delay.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a clock that '按' (to press) the '时' (time) button to ensure everything runs smoothly on schedule. Picture yourself pressing the button to start a meeting exactly at the right moment, symbolizing promptness.
Usage Notes
Learners often confuse '按时' with '及时' (timely), which refers to doing something at the right moment rather than just on time. It's used in formal and informal contexts, often appearing in phrases such as '按时完成' (complete on time). Be mindful of the tone; '按' is pronounced with a falling tone (4) and '时' with a rising tone (2).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 4 word, '按时' connects with vocabulary related to time management and punctuality. Students should focus on its application in sentences and practice pairing it with other related terms like '计划' (plan) or '安排' (arrangement).
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, punctuality is highly valued, especially in business and social settings. Being '按时' reflects respect for others' time and can influence one's reputation in professional contexts.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using '按时' without proper context, such as saying '我按时去商店' (I go to the store on time) instead of '我按时到达商店' (I arrive at the store on time). Ensure to pair it with verbs that indicate an action related to time.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 按时
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Grammar Patterns of 按时
按时 functions as an adverb — it modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. In Chinese, adverbs sit BEFORE the verb they modify (我也去, 他常常迟到), never after it. It carries 3 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
In Chinese culture, punctuality is highly valued, especially in business and social settings. Being '按时' reflects respect for others' time and can influence one's reputation in professional contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions about 按时
Yes, '按时' is appropriate for both professional and personal contexts, indicating that you will arrive on time.
While it primarily refers to future events, it can also describe past events that occurred on time.
You can say '不按时' (bù àn shí) to indicate that something is not on time.
