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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'moment' with 时刻 (shíkè)

    Time Expressions

    Structure

    时刻 + Verb Phrase

    Explanation

    The noun 时刻 (shíkè) means 'moment' or 'time' and refers to a specific point in time or a constant state of readiness. It can describe a particular instant, as in 关键时刻 (critical moment), or be used adverbially to mean 'at all times,' as in 时刻准备着 (always ready). It is more formal than 时候.

    Examples

    • 毕业典礼是人生中难忘的时刻。

      Bìyè diǎnlǐ shì rénshēng zhōng nánwàng de shíkè.

      The graduation ceremony is an unforgettable moment in life.

    • 消防员时刻准备着应对突发情况。

      Xiāofángyuán shíkè zhǔnbèi zhe yìngduì tūfā qíngkuàng.

      Firefighters are always ready to respond to emergencies.

    • 在那个关键时刻，他做出了正确的选择。

      Zài nàge guānjiàn shíkè, tā zuòchū le zhèngquè de xuǎnzé.

      At that critical moment, he made the right choice.

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    Expressing 'moment' with 时刻 (shíkè) | Chinese Grammar