つぎ

next

JLPT N5

Character Breakdown

Usage of (cì)

The character is primarily used as a measure word to count occurrences or repetitions of an action, similar to 'times' in English. For example, means 'three times.' It also functions as an ordinal indicator meaning 'next' or 'second,' often seen in phrases like (next time) or 第一 (first time).

Common Collocations

  • (one time): used to indicate a single occurrence.
  • (next time): refers to the following occasion.
  • (every time): indicates each occurrence.
  • 第一 (the first time): ordinal usage.

Notes on Usage

When using as a measure word, it always follows a verb or an action to specify how many times it happened. It is not used to count objects. As an ordinal, it often appears with to form sequences (e.g., 第一, ).

Avoiding Confusion

Don't confuse with 次序 (order or sequence) or 次要 (secondary). alone focuses on frequency or the notion of 'next' in time or sequence.

Example Sentences

I have been to Beijing three times.

Please say it one more time.

See you next time!

This is my first time coming to China.

He gets very nervous every time he takes an exam.