小时

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"小时" (xiǎoshí) is a common measure word for time, specifically meaning "hour" or 60 minutes. It is used to express durations or lengths of time in everyday conversation.

Common Collocations

  • "小时" (jǐ gè xiǎoshí): "several hours" – used to ask or state an approximate duration.
  • "工作小时" (gōngzuò bā gè xiǎoshí): "work eight hours" – a typical phrase describing a full workday.
  • "等待小时" (děngdài yī gè xiǎoshí): "wait for an hour" – common in contexts involving waiting times.

Usage Notes

"小时" is always used with a number and the measure word "" before it when counting hours (e.g., "小时"). It is not used alone without a number. When expressing exact times of day, "小时" is not used; instead, "" (diǎn) is used (e.g., "" for 3 o'clock).

Common Confusion

Learners sometimes confuse "小时" with "". Remember, "小时" measures duration, while "" indicates the clock time.

Register and Tone

"小时" is neutral and suitable for all registers, from casual to formal speech.

Example Sentences

I study Chinese for two hours every day.

The meeting lasted three hours, and everyone was very tired.

You need to wait for an hour to get the result.

He works eight hours every day, very hard.

The flight was delayed for two hours, we can only wait.