Meaning and Usage
"タイムリー" is a loanword from English "timely" and is commonly used in Japanese to describe something happening at an appropriate or opportune moment. It is often used in everyday conversation to praise actions or information that come just when needed.
Sports Context
In baseball, "タイムリー" specifically refers to a "timely hit" or "run-batted-in (RBI)" that helps score runs. This usage is very common in sports commentary and fan discussions.
Common Collocations
- タイムリーな発言 (timely remark): used when someone says something at the perfect moment.
- タイムリーな情報 (timely information): refers to up-to-date or relevant information.
- タイムリーを打つ (to hit a timely hit): baseball term for an RBI hit.
Register and Nuance
The word is casual and often used in spoken language, especially among younger people and sports fans. It carries a positive nuance, implying usefulness or appropriateness of timing.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse "タイムリー" with just "時間" (time) or "時期" (period). "タイムリー" emphasizes the appropriateness or usefulness of timing rather than just the time itself.