此刻

• Pinyin: cǐ kè
• Hanzi breakdown: 此 (this) + 刻 (moment, instant)

Meaning

This moment; right now; at this instant.

Emphasizes the present moment with a sense of significance or intensity. More dramatic and literary than 现在. Often used when something important is happening or to highlight the emotional weight of a moment.

Examples

1. 此刻我的心情很复杂，不知道该说什么。 At this moment, my feelings are very complicated; I don't know what to say.
2. 历史性的一刻！此刻全世界都在关注这场比赛。 A historic moment! Right now, the whole world is watching this match.
3. 此刻站在领奖台上，她激动得说不出话来。 Standing on the podium at this moment, she was so moved she couldn't speak.

Usage Guide

Context: significant moments, emotions, formal speech

Tone: dramatic

Do Say

• 此刻的心情无法言表。(My feelings at this moment cannot be expressed in words.)
• 此刻我想感谢所有人。(At this moment, I want to thank everyone.)

Don't Say

• 说'此刻我要去上厕所'很奇怪——此刻用于重要或正式的时刻，日常琐事用'现在' (Saying 此刻我要去上厕所 is odd — 此刻 is for significant moments; use 现在 for mundane things)

Origin & History

Compound of 此 (this) + 刻 (moment, instant), meaning this very moment.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal