趁

• Pinyin: chèn
• Hanzi breakdown: 趁 = 走 (walk) + 㐱 (phonetic component related to 珍)

Meaning

While; taking advantage of (a time or opportunity). A preposition indicating doing something when conditions are favorable.

Used before a favorable condition or time window to indicate seizing the moment. Often paired with time expressions or situations. Essential for expressing 'while you still can' or 'before it's too late.'

Examples

1. 趁天还没黑，我们赶紧出发吧。 While it's not dark yet, let's set off right away.
2. 趁年轻多学点东西，以后会受益无穷。 Learn more while you're young; it will benefit you endlessly later.
3. 趁热吃，凉了就不好吃了。 Eat it while it's hot; it won't taste good once it's cold.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday, advice, urgency

Tone: encouraging

Do Say

• 趁现在有空，把作业写完吧。(While you have free time now, finish your homework.)
• 趁老板不在，我们偷偷休息一下。(While the boss is away, let's sneak a little break.)

Don't Say

• 趁我很累 (趁 is for favorable windows, not unfavorable states — say 虽然我很累 instead)

Origin & History

Originally meant 'to follow closely' or 'to pursue.' The meaning evolved to 'taking advantage of the moment' from the idea of closely following an opportunity.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal