平常

へいじょう

normal, usual

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Usage and Nuance

The word 平常 (píngcháng) is used to describe something ordinary, usual, or happening in everyday life. It often contrasts with unusual or exceptional events. It can function as an adverb meaning "usually" or "normally," or as an adjective meaning "ordinary" or "common."

Common Collocations

  • 平常时间 (píngcháng shíjiān): usual time, referring to regular or normal hours.
  • 平常 (píngcháng xīn): a calm, ordinary mindset, often used to encourage staying calm.
  • 平常生活 (píngcháng shēnghuó): everyday life.

Register and Tone

平常 is neutral and suitable for both spoken and written language. It is common in daily conversation and formal contexts alike.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 平常 with (pǔtōng), which also means "ordinary" but is more about generality or commonness, whereas 平常 emphasizes the usual or habitual aspect.

Summary

Use 平常 to talk about what happens regularly or what is typical in daily life. It helps express normalcy and routine, making it a useful word for describing habits, schedules, and everyday occurrences.

Example Sentences

He is rarely late on ordinary days.

We usually have dinner at 8 p.m.

This kind of thing doesn't usually happen.