马上

• Pinyin: mǎ shàng
• Hanzi breakdown: 马 = simplified pictograph of a horse; 上 = up/on

Meaning

Immediately; right away; at once. Indicates something will happen very soon.

One of the most frequently used time adverbs in Chinese. Can indicate both the immediate future and an urgent response. Often used to reassure someone that action is being taken promptly.

Examples

1. 我马上就来。 I'll come right away.
2. 电影马上开始了。 The movie is about to start.
3. 你马上去做作业。 Go do your homework right now.

Usage Guide

Context: time, everyday

Tone: urgent

Do Say

• 等一下，我马上到。(Wait a moment, I'll be right there.)
• 马上就要下雨了。(It's going to rain any moment now.)

Don't Say

• 我马上正在做。(Contradictory — 马上 means 'about to' while 正在 means 'currently doing'; say either 我马上做 or 我正在做)

Origin & History

Literally 'on horseback' (马 horse + 上 on). In ancient times, doing something on horseback implied speed and urgency, hence the modern meaning of 'immediately.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal