定期

• Pinyin: dìng qī
• Hanzi breakdown: 定 = 宀 (roof) + 正 (correct), meaning to settle or fix; 期 = 其 (that) + 月 (moon/month), meaning a period of time

Meaning

Regularly; at fixed intervals. Refers to something happening on a set schedule or at predetermined times.

Can function as a verb meaning 'to fix a date or period' and as an adjective or adverb meaning 'regular' or 'periodically.' Commonly used with activities that follow a schedule, such as health check-ups, meetings, or maintenance. Often contrasted with 不定期 (irregular, at unspecified times).

Examples

1. 医生建议我们定期检查身体。 The doctor recommends that we get regular check-ups.
2. 公司定期举办员工培训活动。 The company regularly organises employee training activities.
3. 这本杂志是定期出版的。 This magazine is published on a regular basis.

Usage Guide

Context: medical, work, institutions

Tone: professional

Do Say

• 我们应该定期锻炼身体。(We should exercise regularly.)
• 银行定期发送账单。(The bank sends statements at regular intervals.)

Don't Say

• 我定期去了一次医院。(Don't use 定期 for a single visit — it implies a recurring schedule, not a one-time event; use 去了一次 on its own)

Origin & History

定 (to fix, to determine) + 期 (period, time). Together meaning 'at a fixed time period.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal