HSK 1
时间表示法
How to tell time and dates in Chinese
Explanation
In Chinese, dates are said in the order: year, month, day. For example: 2020年12月25日 means December 25, 2020. The month is said with a cardinal number, and the day can use '号' (hào) instead of '日' (rì) in everyday speech. Days of the week are said with '星期' (week) plus a number from 1 to 7, where '星期日' or '星期天' is Sunday. Telling time also uses numbers, for example: 8点半 (bā diǎn bàn) is 8:30, or 10点一刻 (shí diǎn yī kè) is 10:15.
Examples
Learn “时间表示法” effectively
The grammar point “时间表示法” (How to tell time and dates in Chinese) is one of the key structures at HSK 1. To use it fluently, you need to understand the contexts where it's used and practice regularly.
Study tip: read the examples aloud many times to build a natural reflex. Then try making your own sentences for your own situations. Use the audio button to hear and practice accurate pronunciation.
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