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March 24, 2026
一时(一時)yìshí(yi4shi2)
一时 (yī shí) refers to a brief period or moment, often implying something temporary or fleeting. It can also indicate a specific time frame during which events occur simultaneously. This term is commonly used to describe situations that are not permanent and may change quickly.
Frequency#3603DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
The concept of time in Chinese culture often emphasizes the transient nature of moments, which is reflected in proverbs and poetry. The phrase 一时 can evoke reflections on the impermanence of life, a theme prevalent in Chinese philosophy.
Memory Tip
Imagine a clock with the hands pointing at '1' and '2' to represent '一' (one) and '时' (time). Picture a moment when something exciting happens for just a brief moment, like a firework exploding in the sky—it's beautiful but over quickly, just like '一时'.
Meanings of 一时
yìshí(yi4shi2)
1a period of time
2a while
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About 一时
一时Simplified
一時Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1
Podcast: 一时
Podcast: 一时
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AI Study Notes for 一时
Quick Contrast
瞬间 (shùnjiān) vs 一时 (yìshí): use 一时 for a longer, more indefinite period compared to the more immediate and fleeting connotation of 瞬间.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a clock with the hands pointing at '1' and '2' to represent '一' (one) and '时' (time). Picture a moment when something exciting happens for just a brief moment, like a firework exploding in the sky—it's beautiful but over quickly, just like '一时'.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 一时 with 一下, which means 'a moment' but is used more informally. 一时 is often used in more serious or literary contexts. Common collocations include 一时之间 (in a moment) and 一时的 (temporary).
HSK Study Tips
While 一时 is not explicitly listed in HSK levels, it is relevant for learners at HSK 3 and above, as they begin to engage with more complex time expressions. Focus on using this word in context to describe temporary situations or simultaneous events.
Cultural Note
The concept of time in Chinese culture often emphasizes the transient nature of moments, which is reflected in proverbs and poetry. The phrase 一时 can evoke reflections on the impermanence of life, a theme prevalent in Chinese philosophy.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 一时 in contexts where they mean to say 'a moment' casually, leading to sentences like '我等了一时' (I waited a short time), which should instead be '我等了一下' (I waited for a moment).
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 一时
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Cultural Notes for 一时
🏮Cultural insight
The concept of time in Chinese culture often emphasizes the transient nature of moments, which is reflected in proverbs and poetry. The phrase 一时 can evoke reflections on the impermanence of life, a theme prevalent in Chinese philosophy.
Frequently Asked Questions about 一时
Yes, 一时 is often used in formal contexts, especially in literature or discussions about time.
No, 一时 specifically refers to a short, temporary period, so it's not appropriate for long-lasting situations.
一时 implies a slightly longer or more significant moment, while 一下 is more casual and brief.
