迟早

• Pinyin: chí zǎo
• Hanzi breakdown: 迟 = late; 早 = early. Together: whether early or late = eventually.

Meaning

Sooner or later; eventually; it's only a matter of time.

An adverb expressing certainty that something will happen, though the exact timing is unknown. Often used for inevitable outcomes, whether positive or negative.

Examples

1. 纸包不住火，这件事迟早会被发现的。 Paper can't contain fire — this matter will be discovered sooner or later.
2. 只要你坚持努力，迟早会成功的。 As long as you keep working hard, you will succeed eventually.
3. 这种不负责任的态度迟早会出问题。 This irresponsible attitude will cause problems sooner or later.

Usage Guide

Context: predictions, warnings, encouragement

Tone: certain

Do Say

• 这种事迟早要解决。(This kind of thing will have to be resolved sooner or later.)
• 他迟早会明白你的苦心。(He will understand your good intentions eventually.)

Don't Say

• 我迟早今天到 (迟早 is for uncertain future timing; for specific days use 早晚 or just state the time)

Origin & History

Compound of 迟 (late) and 早 (early). Together they mean 'whether early or late' = eventually.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal