平时

• Pinyin: píng shí
• Hanzi breakdown: 平 (píng) — ordinary, level; 时 (shí) = 日 (sun) + 寸 (inch), representing time measurement

Meaning

Usually; normally; in ordinary times. Refers to everyday or regular situations.

A very common time adverb used to describe habitual actions or typical situations. Interchangeable with 一般 or 通常 in most contexts, though 平时 has a slightly more personal, everyday feel. Often contrasted with special occasions or particular times.

Examples

1. 我平时八点上班。 I usually go to work at eight.
2. 他平时不怎么说话。 He doesn't talk much normally.
3. 你平时喜欢做什么？ What do you usually like to do?

Usage Guide

Context: daily routines, habits, conversations

Tone: casual

Do Say

• 你平时几点睡觉？(What time do you usually go to bed?)
• 我平时坐地铁上班。(I usually take the subway to work.)

Don't Say

• 不要在描述特殊事件时用平时 (Don't use 平时 when describing a special event — 平时 refers to what happens normally, not on particular occasions; use 那时 or 当时 for specific moments)

Origin & History

平 (píng, ordinary/level) + 时 (shí, time). Literally 'level/ordinary time,' meaning regular, non-special times.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal