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March 24, 2026
定期dìngqī(ding4qi1)
The term '定期' refers to something that occurs at regular intervals or is scheduled for specific time periods. It is commonly used in contexts such as finance (e.g., 定期存款 'fixed deposit') or appointments (e.g., 定期会议 'regular meeting'). The nuance suggests a sense of reliability and predictability in timing.
Frequency#11343DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
'定期' is particularly relevant in Chinese business culture, where regular meetings or updates are often scheduled to maintain accountability and transparency in projects. This reflects a cultural emphasis on structure and planning.
Memory Tip
Think of '定' (ding) as 'to fix' or 'set,' and '期' (qi) as 'period' or 'time.' Imagine setting a fixed clock to ring at the same time each day, symbolizing regularity. This visual can help recall both the meaning and pronunciation of '定期.'
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AI Study Notes for 定期
Quick Contrast
定期 (dìngqī) vs 定时 (dìngshí) — use 定期 for scheduled events at regular intervals, while 定时 emphasizes specific timing rather than the regularity.
Memory Mnemonic
Think of '定' (ding) as 'to fix' or 'set,' and '期' (qi) as 'period' or 'time.' Imagine setting a fixed clock to ring at the same time each day, symbolizing regularity. This visual can help recall both the meaning and pronunciation of '定期.'
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse '定期' with '定时' (ding4 shi2), which means 'on time' or 'scheduled.' '定期' is more about a recurring schedule, while '定时' emphasizes punctuality. It is generally used in both formal and informal contexts but is more prevalent in written language.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, '定期' connects well with other advanced vocabulary related to time and scheduling. Students should focus on its application in formal contexts like business and finance, as well as its collocations with other words related to fixed schedules.
Cultural Note
'定期' is particularly relevant in Chinese business culture, where regular meetings or updates are often scheduled to maintain accountability and transparency in projects. This reflects a cultural emphasis on structure and planning.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse '定期' with '临时' (lin2 shi2), which means 'temporary' or 'on-demand.' A wrong example would be saying '我们有临时会议' instead of '我们有定期会议' when referring to a scheduled meeting.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 定期
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Grammar Patterns of 定期
定期 functions as a verb — the action or state of the sentence. The Chinese order is Subject + Verb + Object (我吃饭). Negate it with 不 (habitual / future) or 没(有) (completed action). Add aspect markers like 了, 过, 着 directly after the verb. It carries 6 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.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
____航班的数量正让空中交通指挥系统不堪重负。
The volume of scheduled flights is straining the air traffic control system.
You pay regular premiums and in return the insurance company will pay out a lump sum.
9
很多基督徒都定期向牧师忏悔他们的罪行和恶念.
hěn duō jī dū tú dū dìng qī xiàng mù shī chàn huǐ tā mén de zuì háng hé è niàn.
Many Christians regularly confess their guilty actions and thoughts to a priest.
Cultural Notes for 定期
🏮Cultural insight
'定期' is particularly relevant in Chinese business culture, where regular meetings or updates are often scheduled to maintain accountability and transparency in projects. This reflects a cultural emphasis on structure and planning.
Frequently Asked Questions about 定期
You can say '我们每个月有定期会议' which means 'We have regular meetings every month.'
Yes, while it is more common in formal contexts, you can use '定期' in everyday conversation when discussing schedules.
Common phrases include '定期存款' (fixed deposit) and '定期检查' (regular check-up).
