一会儿

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"一会儿" (yī huìr) is a common time expression in Mandarin Chinese meaning "a moment" or "a short while." It often refers to a near future time or a brief period. It can be used to indicate something happening soon or to ask someone to wait briefly.

Different Contexts

  1. Near Future Event: Used to talk about something that will happen shortly, e.g., "一会儿" (I'll be back in a moment).
  2. Short Rest or Pause: Suggesting a brief break, e.g., "休息一会儿" (Rest for a moment first).
  3. Mood or State Changes: Describing quick changes in mood or condition, e.g., "一会儿高兴一会儿生气" (He is happy one moment, angry the next).

Common Collocations

Notes

"一会儿" is often interchangeable with "" or "一会儿" (in northern dialects), but "一会儿" is the most standard and widely used form. It is informal and suitable for everyday conversation. Avoid confusing it with "" without the , which can sometimes be less colloquial.

When used repeatedly in a sentence, it can emphasize quick alternation or instability, especially in describing emotions or actions.

Example Sentences

I'll be back in a moment, please wait for me first.

We'll see each other in a little while, don't go too far.

Rest for a moment first, then we'll set off later.

He is happy for a moment, then angry the next; his mood is very unstable.

Please help me look at this document for a moment.