其间

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Character Breakdown

Usage of 其间

The word 其间 (qíjiān) is a formal adverbial phrase meaning "during that time" or "in the meantime." It is often used to specify a time period within a larger event or duration. Speakers use it to highlight what happens or what should be done during that interval.

Common contexts

  1. Describing events or actions occurring within a specific time frame, e.g., meetings, study periods, or movie screenings.
  2. Often appears in written or formal spoken Chinese rather than casual conversation.

Collocations and patterns

  • 其间 (qíjiān yǒu): "there is/are during that time" — used to mention occurrences within the period.
  • 其间 (qíjiān qǐng): "please during that time" — polite requests during an event.

Nuance and register

Its tone is formal and somewhat literary, suitable for news reports, formal announcements, or academic writing. It is less common in everyday casual speech, where simpler expressions like "……期间" might be preferred.

Common confusion

Do not confuse 其间 with 期间 (qījiān), which also means "period" but is more neutral and often used as a noun. 其间 emphasizes the time "within that context or event," often functioning adverbially.

Example Sentences

The meeting started at 9 a.m. and lasted until 5 p.m., with two breaks

During his study abroad, he learned a lot of professional knowledge.

Please keep quiet during the movie screening.