时机

• Pinyin: shí jī
• Hanzi breakdown: 时 = 日 (sun) + 寸 (inch); 机 = 木 (wood) + 几 (small table), originally meaning a loom, now opportunity

Meaning

Opportunity; right moment; opportune time.

Refers to a favorable moment or the right timing for doing something. Emphasizes the importance of timing in achieving success. Often used in business, strategy, and decision-making contexts. Can be modified by adjectives like 好 (good), 成熟 (ripe), or 合适 (suitable).

Examples

1. 现在还不是投资的最佳时机。 Now is not the best time to invest.
2. 他一直在等待合适的时机表白。 He has been waiting for the right moment to confess his feelings.
3. 时机成熟后，我们再公布这个消息。 Once the timing is right, we'll announce this news.

Usage Guide

Context: business, strategy, decision-making

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 抓住时机很重要。(Seizing the right moment is important.)
• 时机不对，别急着行动。(The timing isn't right — don't rush to act.)

Don't Say

• 我有一个时机 — don't use 时机 like 机会; say 我有一个机会 for 'I have an opportunity'

Origin & History

Compound of 时 (time) + 机 (opportunity/trigger), meaning the opportune moment.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal