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March 24, 2026
晚点(晚點)wǎndiǎn(wan3dian3)
晚点 (wǎn diǎn) refers to something being late or delayed, particularly in the context of transportation like trains or buses. It can also imply a light dinner or meal served later in the evening. This term is commonly used in travel contexts and informs passengers of schedule changes.
Frequency#3209DifficultyMedium
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, punctuality in public transportation is highly valued, and delays can be a significant inconvenience. The concept of 晚点 reflects the importance of keeping schedules and the impact of delays on daily life.
Memory Tip
Imagine a train (火车 - huǒchē) that is running late. The sun is setting (晚 - wǎn) as the clock strikes dinner time (点 - diǎn), and the passengers are left waiting. The two components combine to remind you of a train delayed during dinner time.
Meanings of 晚点
wǎndiǎn(wan3dian3)
1(of trains etc) late
2delayed
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About 晚点
晚点Simplified
晚點Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L3IntermediateTOCFLL4HSKKL2BCT✓CEFRB1
Podcast: 晚点
Podcast: 晚点
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AI Study Notes for 晚点
Quick Contrast
晚到 (wǎndào) - use 晚点 when specifically referring to delays in schedules; use 晚到 for general lateness in arrival.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a train (火车 - huǒchē) that is running late. The sun is setting (晚 - wǎn) as the clock strikes dinner time (点 - diǎn), and the passengers are left waiting. The two components combine to remind you of a train delayed during dinner time.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 晚点 with other terms like 迟到 (chídào), which means 'to be late' more generally. This term is used in both formal and informal contexts, especially when discussing transport schedules. Ensure you use the correct tone for clarity, as mispronouncing it could change its meaning.
HSK Study Tips
While 晚点 is not a formal part of the HSK curriculum, it connects to HSK Level 3 vocabulary related to time and travel. Students should focus on the pronunciation tones and the context in which this term is used, especially with public transport.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, punctuality in public transportation is highly valued, and delays can be a significant inconvenience. The concept of 晚点 reflects the importance of keeping schedules and the impact of delays on daily life.
Common Mistakes
Learners might confuse 晚点 with 迟到, using it inappropriately to describe personal lateness. Instead, remember that 晚点 is specifically for scheduled delays, while 迟到 is for individuals arriving late.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 晚点
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Cultural Notes for 晚点
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, punctuality in public transportation is highly valued, and delays can be a significant inconvenience. The concept of 晚点 reflects the importance of keeping schedules and the impact of delays on daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions about 晚点
No, 晚点 can be used for any form of transportation that has a schedule, such as buses or flights.
It's better to use 迟到 (chídào) for personal lateness, while 晚点 is specifically for scheduled delays.
晚点 can also refer to having a light dinner later in the evening, emphasizing the timing of the meal.