時 — meaning in English: Time

toki · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for occasion

顧問

komon

除去

jokyo

コントラスト

kontorasuto

紛争

funso

時

toki

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers use the word 時 (toki) in a variety of contexts, such as discussing daily schedules, planning events, or reflecting on past experiences. For instance, during a casual conversation about what time to meet a friend for dinner, someone might say, '何時に会う？(Nanji ni au?)' meaning 'What time shall we meet?'

Synonyms & nuances

While 時 (toki) is a general term for 'time,' you might encounter the word 時間 (jikan), which specifically refers to 'duration' or 'time span.' Choose 時 when referring to 'time' in a more abstract sense, but use 時間 when discussing how long something takes.

Culture

The character 時 has been part of the Japanese language for centuries, originating from ancient Chinese. Interestingly, in Japan, the concept of time is often intertwined with nature and seasons, evident in expressions like '春の時 (haru no toki)' meaning 'the time of spring,' reflecting a deep cultural appreciation for the cyclical nature of time.

FAQ

Q.What does 時 (toki) mean in English?

時 (toki) translates to 'time' in English. It is a versatile word used in various contexts, from casual conversations to more philosophical discussions about the nature of time.

Q.How do you use 時 (toki) in a sentence?

You can use 時 (toki) in sentences like '今は楽しい時だ (Ima wa tanoshii toki da),' which means 'Now is a fun time.' It's often used to describe specific moments or periods.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 時 (toki)?

One common mistake is confusing 時 (toki) with 時間 (jikan). Remember, use 時 for general references to time, while 時間 is more about measurable duration.

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