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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'promptly' with 及时 (jíshí)

    Manner & Method
    Time Expressions

    Structure

    及时 + Verb

    Explanation

    The adverb 及时 (jíshí) means 'promptly,' 'in time,' or 'without delay.' It emphasizes that an action is performed at the right moment or as soon as needed. For example, 及时汇报 means 'to report in a timely manner.'

    Examples

    • 幸好我们及时赶到，没有错过火车。

      Xìnghǎo wǒmen jíshí gǎndào, méiyǒu cuòguò huǒchē.

      Luckily we arrived in time and didn't miss the train.

    • 发现问题要及时处理，别拖到最后。

      Fāxiàn wèntí yào jíshí chǔlǐ, bié tuō dào zuìhòu.

      When you find a problem, deal with it promptly — don't drag it out until the end.

    • 医生说幸亏送来得及时，不然就危险了。

      Yīshēng shuō xìngkuī sòng lái de jíshí, bùrán jiù wēixiǎn le.

      The doctor said fortunately he was brought in on time, otherwise it would have been dangerous.

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    Expressing 'promptly' with 及时 (jíshí) | Chinese Grammar