Meanings of 片刻
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Podcast: 片刻
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AI study notes for 片刻
瞬间 (shùn jiān) - use 片刻 when emphasizing a brief moment rather than an instantaneous occurrence.
片刻 is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but be cautious with its tone; ensure you pronounce it correctly to avoid misunderstandings. Common collocations include phrases like '停留片刻' (stay for a moment) or '等待片刻' (wait for a moment).
As an HSK 6 word, 片刻 connects with other time-related vocabulary, such as 时刻 (moment in time) and 瞬间 (instant). Students should focus on using it in various contexts to express the passage of time.
Learners often confuse 片刻 with longer durations like 时刻. For example, saying '我会等你一个片刻' (I will wait for you a moment) is correct, but using it for prolonged waits can lead to misinterpretation.
Pronunciation of 片刻
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Component characters
How to say short period of time in Chinese
“short period of time” in Chinese is片刻
片刻 (pian4 ke4) refers to a short period of time or a moment. It is commonly used in both spoken and written Chinese to denote brief intervals, often conveying a sense of urgency or the fleeting nature of time.
When to use 片刻
片刻 is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but be cautious with its tone; ensure you pronounce it correctly to avoid misunderstandings. Common collocations include phrases like '停留片刻' (stay for a moment) or '等待片刻' (wait for a moment).
片刻 or something close to it
瞬间 (shùn jiān) - use 片刻 when emphasizing a brief moment rather than an instantaneous occurrence.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse 片刻 with longer durations like 时刻. For example, saying '我会等你一个片刻' (I will wait for you a moment) is correct, but using it for prolonged waits can lead to misinterpretation.
Write 片刻
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Practice writing 片刻 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Grammar patterns of 片刻
片刻 functions as a number. It almost always combines with a measure word before a noun (三个人, 五本书). Standalone numbers are rare outside of math or counting. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
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____之后,他们身边出现了一只装着香槟的冰桶。
A moment or two later champagne in an ice-bucket materialized beside them.
Example sentences for 片刻 (8)
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Frequently asked questions about 片刻
Yes, 片刻 is appropriate for both written and spoken contexts.
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