Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
期限qīxiàn(qi1xian4)
期限 (qīxiàn) refers to a specific period of time by which something must be done or completed, commonly known as a deadline. It is often used in legal, academic, and business contexts to indicate the final date for submissions or obligations.
Frequency#7570DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, meeting deadlines is often seen as a reflection of one's reliability and respect for others' time. This is particularly important in business dealings where punctuality can significantly influence relationships.
Memory Tip
Imagine a clock with a big red 'X' marking the end of a countdown—this symbolizes that the time is limited (期限). The character '期' looks like a calendar page turning to the last day, while '限' resembles a fence indicating the boundary of time.
Meanings of 期限
qīxiàn(qi1xian4)
1time limit
2deadline
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 期限
期限Simplified
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#7570Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2CEFRB1
Podcast: 期限
Podcast: 期限
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 期限
Quick Contrast
截止日期 (jiézhǐ rìqī) vs 期限 (qīxiàn): Use 期限 for a broader time frame or obligation, while 截止日期 specifically refers to the final date for submissions.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a clock with a big red 'X' marking the end of a countdown—this symbolizes that the time is limited (期限). The character '期' looks like a calendar page turning to the last day, while '限' resembles a fence indicating the boundary of time.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 期限 with similar terms like 截止日期 (jiézhǐ rìqī), which specifically means 'cut-off date.' 期限 can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but is more commonly seen in business or legal discussions. Remember to use the correct tone for both characters: qī (first tone) and xiàn (fourth tone).
HSK Study Tips
At HSK Level 6, students should focus on using 期限 in sentences related to deadlines in various contexts, such as project management or academic submissions. Connecting this word with other time-related vocabulary will enhance understanding.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, meeting deadlines is often seen as a reflection of one's reliability and respect for others' time. This is particularly important in business dealings where punctuality can significantly influence relationships.
Common Mistakes
Learners often forget the correct tones, saying 'qi2 xian4' instead of 'qi1 xian4'. Additionally, some might use 期限 incorrectly in casual conversations, where simpler terms like '最后期限' (zuìhòu qīxiàn) might be more appropriate.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 期限
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 期限 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 期限 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Grammar Patterns of 期限
期限 functions as a noun — it names a person, place, thing, or concept. Place it as a subject before the verb (主+谓) or as an object after the verb (谓+宾). Most Chinese nouns require a measure word between the number and the noun (e.g. 一个/三本). 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.
We have extended the time limit for claims until July
6
个人所得税申报归档的最后期限是4月15日.
gè rén suǒ dé shuì shēn bào guī dàng de zuì hòu qī xiàn shì4 415 yuè.
April 15 is the deadline for filling individual income - tax returns.
Cultural Notes for 期限
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, meeting deadlines is often seen as a reflection of one's reliability and respect for others' time. This is particularly important in business dealings where punctuality can significantly influence relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions about 期限
You can say: '这个项目的期限是下个月的15号' (The deadline for this project is the 15th of next month).
While it is commonly used in formal contexts, it can also be used informally when discussing personal deadlines.
期限 refers to a general time limit while 截止日期 specifically denotes the final date for submissions.
