及时

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word 及时 (jíshí) means 'timely' or 'at the right time.' It is used to describe actions or events that happen promptly enough to be effective or beneficial. It often implies that something was done neither too early nor too late, but exactly when needed.

Common Contexts

  1. Emergency or urgent situations: e.g., a doctor arriving 及时 to save a life.
  2. Customer service or problem-solving: handling issues 及时 to prevent escalation.
  3. Metaphorical expressions: like 及时, meaning a timely help or relief.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 及时 (arrive in time): emphasizes prompt arrival.
  • 及时处理 (handle promptly): used in work or service contexts.
  • 及时 (timely rain): a metaphor for timely assistance.

Nuances

Using 及时 suggests a positive evaluation of timing, highlighting that the timing was appropriate and effective. It differs from words like 马上 (immediately) which emphasize speed without necessarily implying appropriateness of timing. Avoid confusing 及时 with (late), which is the opposite.

Register

This word is neutral and common in both spoken and written Chinese, suitable for formal and informal contexts.

Example Sentences

The doctor arrived in time and saved the patient's life.

We should handle customer complaints promptly to avoid escalation.

timely rain (something that comes just when needed)