time
time — 動詞
- timepresent simple I / you / we / they
- times3rd person singular
- timing-ing form
- timedpast simple
1. to choose a specific moment for an event or activity to happen, especially by pl
安排時間
決定某事發生的時間
to choose a specific moment for an event or activity to happen, especially by planning ahead
The conference was timed to start at nine in the morning.
會議被安排在早上九點開始。
passive: be timed to [infinitive]
Omar timed his visit to the museum for a quiet Tuesday afternoon.
Omar 把他的博物館參觀行程安排在一個安靜的星期一下午。
active: time + noun + for + time phrase
The school timed the final exam to finish before the winter break.
學校把期末考安排在寒假前結束。
Yuki timed her speech to begin right after the awards ceremony.
Yuki 把她的演講安排在頒獎典禮結束後馬上開始。
The train service is timed so that passengers can easily catch the ferry.
火車的班次經過安排,讓乘客可以輕鬆趕上渡輪。
文法句型
time + noun + to-infinitive
time + noun + for + noun
用法筆記
Often used in the passive voice when the subject is the event itself rather than the person arranging it. The direct object must be the event or activity being scheduled, not a person.
常見錯誤
2. to make an action take place at exactly the right moment, producing the most des
抓緊時機
選擇最佳時機以達最佳效果
to make an action take place at exactly the right moment, producing the most desirable outcome
Kabir timed his joke perfectly and the whole class burst out laughing.
Kabir 的笑話時機抓得剛剛好,全班都笑了出來。
adverb: time [noun] perfectly
The gardener timed the planting carefully so the flowers would bloom for the festival.
園丁仔細安排栽種時間,讓花朵能在節日期間盛開。
adverb: time [noun] carefully
Renata timed her entrance to the party just as the music started playing.
Renata 抓準音樂剛響起的時機進場。
The chef timed the sauce to be ready exactly when the pasta was cooked.
主廚算準醬料完成的時間,讓它與義大利麵同時上桌。
The sales team timed their discount campaign to launch just before the holiday shopping rush.
銷售團隊把折扣活動安排在假期購物潮來臨前推出。
- coordinate
emphasises matching several actions together
- synchronise
more precise; means making things happen at exactly the same moment
文法句型
time + noun + well/perfectly/carefully
用法筆記
Often paired with adverbs like 'well', 'perfectly', 'carefully', or 'badly' to comment on the quality of the timing. The focus is on achieving a desired effect rather than merely scheduling.
常見錯誤
3. to use a stopwatch, clock, or other device to measure how many seconds, minutes,
計時
測量某事所需的時間
to use a stopwatch, clock, or other device to measure how many seconds, minutes, or hours something lasts or how fast it is
The coach timed each runner with a stopwatch during practice.
教練在練習時用碼錶為每位跑者計時。
time + noun + with + device
Élise timed how long it took to boil the water for her morning tea.
Élise 計算了煮開泡茶的水需要多久時間。
time + how long + clause
Sumin timed how fast the ice melted in warm water for her science project.
Sumin 為科學作業計時冰塊在溫水中融化的速度。
Heloísa timed her daughter swimming laps to check if her speed was improving.
Heloísa 為女兒游泳來回計時,檢查她的速度有沒有進步。
Nadia timed herself while she ran three laps around the school track.
Nadia 在學校操場跑三圈時為自己計時。
文法句型
time + noun
time + how long / how fast + clause
用法筆記
Common in sports, science experiments, and cooking contexts. The device used (stopwatch, timer, clock) is often introduced with 'with'. Can take a wh-clause ('how long', 'how fast') as its object.
常見錯誤
time — 名詞
- timesingular
- timesplural
1. The continuous movement of all existence from past to future, which humans divid
時間;時光
存在從過去到未來的連續過程
The continuous movement of all existence from past to future, which humans divide into units such as minutes, hours, and years in order to measure it.
Theo did not notice how much time had passed while reading his book.
Theo 看書時完全沒注意到時間過去了多久。
collocation: time passes
The old clock in the village square has measured time for over a hundred years.
村莊廣場上的老時鐘計時已經超過一百年了。
Young children often feel that time moves very slowly before their birthday arrives.
年幼的孩子常覺得生日到來前,時間過得非常慢。
Photographs from the past show us how time gradually changes faces and places.
過去的照片讓我們看到時間如何逐漸改變人和地方。
Over time the small garden grew into a wild forest full of birds and flowers.
隨著時間過去,小花園變成了一座充滿鳥類和花朵的野生森林。
文法句型
time + verb (passes / goes by / flies)
over time
through time
用法筆記
This sense is uncountable and refers to the abstract concept. It is rarely used with the article 'a' or in plural form. Common verbs that pair with it include 'pass', 'go by', 'fly', and 'move'.
常見錯誤
2. The full span during which something is happening or someone is present, without
全程;一直
某事持續的整個期間,不間斷
The full span during which something is happening or someone is present, without any breaks or interruptions.
The baby cried the whole time during the long car journey to the beach.
在前往海灘的漫長車程中,嬰兒一路都在哭。
fixed phrase: 'the whole time'
Keiko kept checking her watch the entire time the meeting was running late.
Keiko 在會議延誤的過程中一直看手錶。
The construction crew played music most of the time while building the new school.
建築工人在蓋新學校時大部分時間都在播放音樂。
Grandpa tells stories about his childhood almost all the time when we visit him.
爺爺每次我們去他家時幾乎都在講他小時候的故事。
- throughout
preposition, not a noun; used similarly: 'throughout the day'
文法句型
the whole time
all the time
the entire time
most of the time
用法筆記
This sense appears in three common fixed phrases: 'all the time' (= continuously or very often), 'the whole time' (= throughout a specific period), and 'most of the time' (= on most occasions). Distinguish from sense 5 (CONSTANTLY TRUE), which uses 'at all times' in a more formal, rule-like manner.
常見錯誤
3. A very brief period, used especially in the fixed expression 'in no time' to emp
轉眼間;很快
極短的時間,強調速度驚人
A very brief period, used especially in the fixed expression 'in no time' to emphasise that something happens or is done with surprising speed.
The ambulance arrived in no time at all after the emergency call was made.
救護車在接到求救電話後一下子就趕到了。
fixed phrase: 'in no time at all'
Dmitri finished his maths homework in no time and then went outside to play.
Dmitri 一下子就寫完了數學作業,然後跑出去玩。
fixed phrase: 'in no time'
The children cleaned the kitchen in no time when they heard about ice cream.
孩子們一聽到有冰淇淋,很快就清理好了廚房。
With the bullet train you can reach Kyoto from Tokyo in no time.
搭新幹線從東京到京都轉眼間就到了。
Mayumi unpacked all the moving boxes in no time with her sister helping her.
Mayumi 在妹妹的協助下,一下子就搬完了所有的箱子。
- slowly
adverb; the opposite of speed, used with actions
文法句型
in no time
in no time at all
用法筆記
Almost always occurs in the fixed phrase 'in no time' or its variant 'in no time at all'. The phrase always follows a verb describing the action. It is informal and common in everyday conversation.
常見錯誤
4. A situation in which one must act immediately because any delay would cause some
刻不容緩
必須立刻行動,耽誤就會錯過
A situation in which one must act immediately because any delay would cause something important to be missed, lost, or ruined.
There is no time to lose if we want to catch the last train home.
如果我們想趕上最後一班回家的火車,就一刻也不能耽誤了。
fixed phrase: 'there is no time to lose'
The firefighter knew there was no time to lose when smoke filled the hallway.
消防員看到走廊冒出濃煙時,知道刻不容緩。
The research team had no time to lose before the storm damaged their equipment.
研究團隊在暴風雨損壞設備之前,一刻也不能浪費。
Amara realised there was no time to lose and called for help on her phone.
Amara 意識到刻不容緩,立刻打電話求救。
文法句型
there is no time to lose
have no time to lose
用法筆記
Always found in the fixed expression 'have no time to lose' or 'there is no time to lose'. It is followed by a to-infinitive or a clause describing what needs to be done urgently. Frequently used in storytelling to build urgency.
常見錯誤
5. Every moment without exception; used to describe something that is permanently t
隨時;始終
毫無例外地、永久適用的狀態
Every moment without exception; used to describe something that is permanently the case, always expected, or required on every occasion.
The hospital entrance must remain clear at all times for emergency vehicles.
醫院入口必須隨時保持暢通,以便救護車通行。
fixed phrase: 'at all times' (rule/requirement)
The flight attendant reminded passengers to keep their seat belts fastened at all times.
空服員提醒乘客全程繫好安全帶。
My grandmother always says that we should treat other people with kindness at all times.
我祖母總說無論何時都應該善待他人。
The lifeguard on duty is expected to watch the swimming pool carefully at all times.
值班的救生員必須隨時仔細注意游泳池的狀況。
- always
adverb; less formal, used in everyday speech
- constantly
adverb; emphasises continuous, uninterrupted action
- never
adverb; at no time
文法句型
at all times
用法筆記
Appears almost exclusively in the fixed phrase 'at all times', which is more formal than 'always'. Common in official rules, signs, safety instructions, and formal recommendations. Distinguish from sense 2 (WHOLE PERIOD), where 'all the time' is less formal and more conversational.
常見錯誤
6. Used after a superlative adjective to refer to every person or thing throughout
有史以來
用於最高級後,涵蓋所有歷史
Used after a superlative adjective to refer to every person or thing throughout history without limit, emphasising that nothing else in the past compares.
Many people consider Pelé to be the greatest football player of all time.
許多人認為 Pelé 是史上最偉大的足球員。
fixed phrase: 'of all time' after superlative
That was the most delicious noodle soup I have ever tasted in all my life.
那是我這輩子喝過最好喝的湯麵。
The museum claims to have the largest collection of dinosaur fossils of all time.
該博物館號稱擁有史上最大的恐龍化石收藏。
Einstein is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant scientists of all time.
愛因斯坦被公認為史上最傑出的科學家之一。
This song is frequently named among the most popular love songs of all time.
這首歌經常被列為史上最受歡迎的情歌之一。
- ever
adverb; used similarly in 'the best ever', less formal
文法句型
superlative + of all time
用法筆記
Always follows a superlative or 'one of the' + superlative structure. The phrase 'of all time' cannot be used alone — it requires a preceding superlative. The variant 'in all my life' serves a similar function for personal experience rather than all of history.
常見錯誤
7. a set of rules that a country or region follows for measuring and naming the hou
時制
世界各地記錄時間的制度
a set of rules that a country or region follows for measuring and naming the hours of the day, including the time zone it belongs to and whether it uses daylight saving time
Passengers flying from London to Singapore had to calculate the time difference between two systems.
從倫敦飛往新加坡的乘客必須計算兩個時制之間的時差。
collocation: time difference / time system
Paloma's phone updated to local time automatically when she landed in Cairo.
Paloma 的電話在她抵達開羅時自動更新為當地時間。
The train timetable listed all departures according to Central European Time.
火車時刻表上所有的發車時間都根據中歐時間標示。
Adina checked what time system her relatives used before calling them in Argentina.
Adina 在打給阿根廷的親戚前,先確認了他們使用的時制。
- time zone
refers specifically to the geographic band, not the whole system of rules
- standard time
more limited — excludes daylight saving adjustments
文法句型
the [name] time system
[region] time
用法筆記
Often appears with a place name or region, as in Eastern Time, Pacific Time, or Japan Standard Time.
8. a period that you can use for a particular activity, especially when you are not
可用時間
可用來做某事的時間
a period that you can use for a particular activity, especially when you are not busy with other things
Esme did not have time for lunch because her next class started in ten minutes.
Esme 沒有時間吃午餐,因為下一堂課十分鐘後就開始了。
pattern: have time for [noun phrase]
Jack made time in his busy week to visit his grandmother at the hospital.
Jack 在忙碌的一週中撥出時間去醫院探望祖母。
pattern: make time to [verb]
The manager set aside time on Friday to review each team member's progress.
經理特別在星期五留出時間,檢視每位團隊成員的進度。
Do you have any time this afternoon to help me carry the boxes upstairs?
你今天下午有空幫我把這些箱子搬上樓嗎?
There is always time for a short walk after dinner before the sun goes down.
晚餐後在太陽下山前,總有時間可以散個步。
文法句型
have time for [noun phrase]
have time to [verb]
用法筆記
Commonly used with have, make, set aside, or find. Followed by for + noun phrase or to + infinitive.
常見錯誤
9. a sufficient amount of hours or minutes needed to do something without rushing
足夠時間
有充分的時間做某事
a sufficient amount of hours or minutes needed to do something without rushing
Nadia saw there was still time to buy groceries before the shop closed.
Nadia 發現還有時間可以在商店關門前去買雜貨。
pattern: there is (still) time to [verb]
We have plenty of time before the film starts, so let us grab a drink.
電影開演前我們還有充足的時間,先去喝杯飲料吧。
collocation: plenty of time
Jisoo finished the exam with time to spare and checked her answers twice.
Jisoo 從容地寫完考試,還有時間檢查了兩次答案。
The chef did not have enough time to finish the special dessert before guests arrived.
主廚沒有足夠的時間在第一批客人抵達前做好那道特製甜點。
There was barely enough time to change clothes before the wedding ceremony began.
時間幾乎不夠在婚禮開始前換好衣服。
- sufficient time
more formal; used in official or written contexts
- shortage of time
the opposite situation where time is insufficient
文法句型
there is (enough/plenty of) time to [verb]
have enough time to [verb]
用法筆記
Frequently appears with enough, plenty of, or still. The negative form (not enough time) is equally common.
常見錯誤
10. a period that you do not need to use productively, so you can fill it with any a
空閒
不需用來做正事的空餘時間
a period that you do not need to use productively, so you can fill it with any activity or simply let it pass
Kemi had time to kill before her flight, so she walked around the airport shops.
Kemi 在登機前還有時間要打發,就到機場商店隨便逛逛。
idiom: have time to kill
The children spent the whole afternoon wasting time on video games instead of studying.
孩子們整個下午都在打電動,浪費時間沒念書。
pattern: waste time [verb]-ing
Darius hates wasting time in traffic, so he plays language lessons on his commute.
Darius 討厭在塞車時浪費時間,所以在通勤路上播放語言課程。
We had time left after the tour, so we sat for coffee near the fountain.
導覽結束後我們還有一些時間,就在噴泉旁坐下來喝杯咖啡。
Christopher stopped wasting time arguing and agreed to the plan.
Christopher 不再浪費時間爭論,於是同意了這個計畫。
- leisure time
more specific — implies relaxation, not just any unfilled time
- busy time
a period filled with urgent tasks
文法句型
have time to kill
waste time [verb]-ing
spend time [verb]-ing
用法筆記
Often appears in expressions like have time to kill (informal), waste time, or spend time. The focus is on using time without a defined productive goal.
常見錯誤
11. a situation in which the available minutes or hours run out before a task can be
來不及
時間不夠完成某事的情況
a situation in which the available minutes or hours run out before a task can be finished
Mira ran out of time before she answered the last three test questions.
Mira 還沒來得及回答最後三題,時間就不夠了。
verb phrase: run out of time
The basketball team had no time left to make another shot before the buzzer rang.
籃球隊在蜂鳴器響起前已經沒有時間再投一球了。
When the fire crew arrived, there was no time to save the old wooden barn.
消防員抵達時,已經沒有時間拯救那間舊木造穀倉了。
Élise realized she was running out of time to submit her application before the deadline.
Élise 發現她在截止日前剩下的時間不多了,要趕緊送出申請。
- deadline
a noun referring to the end point, not the shortage itself
- time to spare
extra time remaining after finishing
文法句型
run out of time
have no time left
用法筆記
Almost always used in negative or urgent contexts — run out of time, have no time left, there is no time. The sense describes a shortage, not a neutral amount.
常見錯誤
12. a state of having very few minutes or hours available, making it necessary to ac
趕時間
時間不足而必須加快腳步的狀態
a state of having very few minutes or hours available, making it necessary to act quickly or skip non-essential tasks
The doctor was short of time and could only see each patient for five minutes.
醫生時間很趕,每位病人只能看五分鐘。
phrase: be short of time
I am pressed for time, so please send me the details in an email.
我現在時間很緊,麻煩你把細節用 email 寄給我。
phrase: be pressed for time
With two days until the wedding, the family had little time to fix the decorations.
距離婚禮只剩兩天,這家人沒有什麼時間修理裝飾了。
Paloma was short on time but still helped the lost tourist find the station.
Paloma 雖然趕時間,還是幫迷路的觀光客找到車站。
- in a hurry
adjectival; describes the person's feeling rather than the resource
- plenty of time
having more than enough time
文法句型
be short of time
be pressed for time
have little time
用法筆記
Similar to sense 11 (RUN OUT), but emphasizes the continuous state of being busy or hurried rather than the moment when time reaches zero. Common in apologies and polite refusals.
常見錯誤
13. used when the permitted duration for a task, test, or event has come to an end a
時間到
允許的時間已用完
used when the permitted duration for a task, test, or event has come to an end and no additional moments remain
The teacher told the students their time was up, so they had to put down their pencils.
老師告訴學生們時間到了,他們必須放下鉛筆。
collocation: time is up / time was up
Kian checked the parking meter and saw that his time was about to run out.
Kian 檢查了停車計時器,發現他的時間快要到了。
collocation: time runs out
When the referee called time, both boxers stopped fighting and returned to their corners.
當裁判喊停時,兩位拳擊手都停下戰鬥,回到各自的角落。
Paloma glanced at the clock and realised her time on the computer was almost gone.
Paloma 瞥了一眼時鐘,發現她用電腦的時間差不多用完了。
用法筆記
This sense is different from sense 10 (RUN OUT OF TIME) — sense 10 describes not having enough minutes to finish a task, while this sense describes the moment when the allowed period ends completely, regardless of completion.
常見錯誤
14. the extra period that an official adds onto a football match to make up for mome
傷停補時
足球比賽因傷停而延長
the extra period that an official adds onto a football match to make up for moments when play was stopped, such as when injured players received treatment
United scored the winning goal in stoppage time, just seconds before the final whistle.
United 在傷停補時踢進致勝球,距離終場哨聲只剩幾秒。
sports term: stoppage time / injury time / added time
The referee added five minutes of injury time after the long delay for medical treatment on the field.
球場上因醫療處理耽誤了很長時間,裁判增加了五分鐘的傷停補時。
Christopher could not believe it when his team conceded a goal in the fourth minute of added time.
Christopher 不敢相信他的球隊在傷停補時的第四分鐘被進球。
Fans were already heading for the exits when the match entered stoppage time with the score still level.
當比賽在比分僵持的情況下進入傷停補時時,球迷們已經開始往出口走。
- injury time
the same concept, emphasising that time was lost due to player injuries
- added time
another name for the same concept, common in official match reports
用法筆記
Common in British English football commentary. Also called 'injury time' or 'added time.' In American English, similar concepts exist in other sports (e.g. 'overtime' in basketball) but 'stoppage time' is specific to association football (soccer).
15. a particular period or duration during which something happens or is needed
期間
某事持續經過的長短
a particular period or duration during which something happens or is needed
Nellie spent a long time in the hospital recovering from the operation.
Nellie 在醫院裡待了很長一段時間,從手術中恢復。
pattern: spend + time + (in/doing something)
The meeting went on for a short time, only about twenty minutes in total.
會議只進行了很短的時間,總共大約二十分鐘。
Esteban worked at the bank for a time before deciding to go back to school.
Esteban 在銀行工作了一段時間,然後決定回學校唸書。
Vikram spent a long time learning to repair old bicycles in his grandfather's garage.
Vikram 花了很長一段時間在祖父的車庫裡學習修理舊腳踏車。
Stephanie waited a long time for the bus in the rain before it finally arrived.
Stephanie 在雨中等了很長時間,公車才終於來。
用法筆記
Countable in singular when referring to a specific period ('a long time'), uncountable when referring to duration in general ('I have no time'). Distinguish from sense 18 (LONG PERIOD), which refers specifically to a fairly extended duration, while this sense covers any length.
常見錯誤
16. a period when someone stops working or doing their usual activities, usually in
休假;休息
暫停工作去做其他事
a period when someone stops working or doing their usual activities, usually in order to rest, travel, or deal with personal matters
Rachid decided to take some time off from work to travel around Southeast Asia.
Rachid 決定請假一段時間,去東南亞旅行。
collocation: take time off (from work)
The company gives all employees paid time off during the winter holidays.
公司在聖誕假期給所有員工放有薪假。
collocation: paid time off
Anong asked her manager for time off to attend her brother's wedding in Chiang Mai.
Anong 向經理請假,去清邁參加哥哥的婚禮。
After the busy season finished, the whole team was told to take some time off to recharge.
旺季結束後,整個團隊被告知要休息一段時間來恢復精力。
- work time
periods when one is expected to be working
用法筆記
Often appears in fixed expressions such as 'take time off,' 'have time off,' 'ask for time off,' and 'get time off.' The preposition 'from' introduces what the person is taking a break from. Distinguish from sense 17 (SHORT WHILE), which is about a brief duration of any activity, not specifically a break from work.
常見錯誤
17. a short period or brief duration
短時間
短暫的時段
a short period or brief duration
Aarav sat down for a short time to drink some water before continuing the climb.
Aarav 坐下來休息了一小段時間,喝點水,然後繼續爬山。
collocation: for a short time
The rain stopped for a little while, so we went outside to enjoy the fresh air.
雨停了一小會兒,所以我們到外面呼吸新鮮空氣。
James waited only a short time before the bus finally arrived at the station.
James 只等了一小段時間,公車就到了車站。
Jude rested for a time after the long walk and then felt well enough to continue.
Jude 在長途步行後休息了一會兒,覺得體力恢復了,可以繼續前進。
- a long time
an extended duration, the opposite of a short period
用法筆記
Often used in phrases like 'a short time,' 'a little while,' 'for a time,' and 'in a short time.' The expressions 'a short time' and 'a little while' are interchangeable in most contexts. Distinguish from sense 15 (PERIOD), which is neutral about length — this sense emphasises brevity.
常見錯誤
18. a fairly long or extended period of time
長時間
相當長的時間
a fairly long or extended period of time
Christopher lived in Mexico for a long time before moving back to Canada.
Christopher 在墨西哥住了很長一段時間,才搬回加拿大。
collocation: for a long time
It took a long time for the hospital to receive the medical supplies after the storm.
風暴過後,醫院等了好久才收到醫療物資。
Eri had not seen her childhood friends for such a long time that she almost did not recognise them.
Eri 已經好久沒有見到她兒時的朋友們,差點認不出他們。
The court case went on for a long time, lasting nearly two years from start to finish.
那件官司持續了很長時間,從頭到尾將近兩年。
- ages
informal; 'I have not seen you in ages' — more emphatic than 'a long time'
- an extended period
more formal; used in written or professional contexts
- a long while
slightly more literary; interchangeable with 'a long time'
- a short time
a brief period, the opposite of a long time
用法筆記
Common in the fixed expression 'for a long time' to indicate an extended duration. 'A long time' can also be used without 'for' in subject position ('A long time has passed'). Distinguish from sense 15 (PERIOD), which is neutral regarding length — this sense emphasises the extended nature of the time.
常見錯誤
19. happening or continuing only through a short stretch of time, without lasting pe
一度;暫時
短暫而非永久地
happening or continuing only through a short stretch of time, without lasting permanently
Christopher worked as a taxi driver for a time after losing his job.
Christopher 在失業後一度開計程車維生。
adverbial phrase 'for a time' = temporarily
The rain stopped for a time, so the children went outside to play.
雨停了一陣子,孩子們便到外面玩耍。
For a time, the old lighthouse was used as a small museum.
那座老燈塔曾經一度被當作小型博物館。
The company's profits rose for a time, then fell again.
這家公司的利潤一度上升,後來又下滑了。
Élise shared a flat with two friends for a time after university.
Élise 大學畢業後曾暫時跟兩位朋友合租公寓。
- temporarily
more direct adverb; 'for a time' is slightly more literary
- briefly
emphasises short duration more strongly
- momentarily
even shorter; 'for a time' suggests longer than a moment
- permanently
opposite meaning — ongoing without end
- forever
stronger opposite, emphasising endlessness
文法句型
for a time
用法筆記
Commonly appears as the fixed adverbial phrase 'for a time.' Unlike sense 15 (PERIOD), which refers to a measurable duration, this sense emphasises that the situation is temporary.
20. a polite word used instead of 'period' when talking about a woman's monthly flow
月經;生理期
女性每月的生理週期
a polite word used instead of 'period' when talking about a woman's monthly flow of blood from the womb
Hiro asked his partner if it was that time of the month.
Hiro 問伴侶是不是快到了每個月的那幾天。
common phrase: 'that time of the month'
Many schools now teach students about the time of the month without embarrassment.
現在許多學校教導學生關於生理期的知識,不會感到尷尬。
The nurse told Yael that her time would probably come every twenty-eight days.
護士告訴 Yael,她的生理期大概每二十八天來一次。
Sahil felt shy at first about buying pads during her time of the month.
Sahil 在生理期時不好意思去買衛生棉。
- period
the standard word; 'time' is a softer alternative
- menstruation
formal medical term
文法句型
time of the month
her time
用法筆記
Almost always used with a possessive determiner ('her time', 'my time') or in the fixed phrase 'time of the month.' Avoid in formal medical writing — use 'menstruation' or 'period' instead.
常見錯誤
21. a measurement of the present moment of the day, taken from a watch, phone, or si
時間;時刻
時鐘顯示的鐘點
a measurement of the present moment of the day, taken from a watch, phone, or similar device
What time does the last bus leave tonight?
今晚最後一班公車幾點出發?
question pattern: 'what time...?' for asking about clock time
Diego checked the time on his phone before the meeting started.
Diego 在會議開始前看了一下手機上的時間。
The time on the old clock in the hall was ten past two.
大廳那座老時鐘顯示的時間是兩點十分。
Can you tell me what time the museum opens on Sundays?
可以告訴我週日博物館幾點開門嗎?
Jin looked at his wristwatch to check the time before the train arrived.
Jin 在火車進站前看了看手錶確認時間。
- hour
narrower — usually refers to the exact hour (e.g. 3 o'clock)
- clock reading
more technical; 'time' is the everyday term
文法句型
what time...?
the time is...
at...time
用法筆記
Frequently appears in the question pattern 'What time...?' and in reported time expressions ('the time is…'). Unlike sense 22 (MOMENT OF EVENT), this sense refers strictly to readings from a clock.
常見錯誤
22. the exact point in time at which an event takes place or an action is performed
那一刻;當時
事情發生的時刻
the exact point in time at which an event takes place or an action is performed
By the time Reuben called the agent, the house had already been sold.
等 Reuben 打給仲介時,那棟房子已經賣掉了。
conjunction pattern: 'by the time [clause]'
At the time of the accident, Hoa was driving home from work.
事故發生時,Hoa 正開車下班回家。
prepositional phrase: 'at the time of [noun]'
The police arrived just in time to see the car drive away.
警方及時趕到,親眼看到那輛車開走。
Tariro was still living at home at the time her sister got married.
Tariro 的姐姐結婚時,她還住在家裡。
At this time last year, Sari was travelling through South America.
去年這個時候,Sari 正在南美洲旅行。
文法句型
at the time of
by the time
at this time
用法筆記
This sense typically appears in fixed prepositional phrases: 'at the time (that/of),' 'by the time,' 'at this/that time.' Distinguish from sense 21 (CLOCK TIME), which is about what a clock shows rather than the moment an event occurs.
常見錯誤
23. the situation when two or more events occur during the same moment or period
同時
在同一時間發生
the situation when two or more events occur during the same moment or period
Jabari tried to cook dinner and help his son with homework at the same time.
Jabari 試著一邊做晚餐,一邊同時幫兒子做功課。
fixed phrase 'at the same time' for simultaneous actions
Two trains arrived at the station at exactly the same time.
兩班火車在同一時間抵達車站。
The film was released in Europe and Asia at the same time.
這部電影在歐洲和亞洲同時上映。
Cyrus cannot read and listen to music at the same time.
Cyrus 沒辦法同時看書又聽音樂。
Heloísa laughed and cried at the same time when she heard the news.
Heloísa 聽到消息時又哭又笑。
- simultaneously
more formal; 'at the same time' is everyday English
- at once
slightly less common; can also mean 'immediately'
- separately
not at the same time; one after another
文法句型
at the same time
用法筆記
Always appears in the fixed phrase 'at the same time.' Unlike sense 36 (OCCASION, 'at the same time' = nevertheless), this sense expresses literal simultaneity.
常見錯誤
24. the current stage of a person's life, especially when they are older rather than
這把年紀
某人目前的年齡階段
the current stage of a person's life, especially when they are older rather than young
At his time of life, Eli prefers a quiet evening to a loud party.
以 Eli 這把年紀,他偏好安靜的夜晚而不喜歡熱鬧的派對。
fixed phrase 'at [possessive] time of life'
My grandmother says at her time of life she cannot learn new technology.
我奶奶說她這把年紀已經學不會新科技了。
At my time of life, I have learned not to worry about small things.
到了我這個歲數,我學會了不為小事煩惱。
Tanvi's father says at his time of life, health matters more than money.
Tanvi 的父親說他這把年紀,健康比金錢更重要。
- at this stage
broader — can refer to any phase; 'time of life' implies older age
- at my age
more direct and common; 'time of life' is slightly gentler
文法句型
at [possessive] time of life
用法筆記
Always used with a possessive determiner in the fixed phrase 'at [my/his/her/their] time of life.' Almost always implies the person is middle-aged or elderly, not young. Distinguish from sense 21 (CLOCK TIME) and sense 22 (MOMENT OF EVENT).
常見錯誤
25. a particular moment during the day, year, or process when conditions are good en
時機
適合做某事的時刻
a particular moment during the day, year, or process when conditions are good enough for a particular action or event to take place
Tomás thought it was the right time to ask for a pay rise.
Tomás 認為那是要求加薪的合適時機。
pattern: 'the right time to [verb]'
Spring is the best time to plant tomato seeds in the garden.
春天是在花園種植番茄種子的最佳時機。
The wedding invitations arrived, but it was not a good time for us to travel.
婚禮邀請函寄來了,但那段時間並不適合我們出遠門。
Yuna decided that now was not the time to discuss the problem.
Yuna 認為現在不是討論這個問題的時候。
There is a time for work and a time for rest, said the old teacher.
那位老老師說,有工作的時候,也有休息的時候。
文法句型
time to [verb]
the right time for [noun]
用法筆記
Frequently appears in the patterns 'the right/good time to [verb]' and 'a time for [noun].' The negative form 'not the time' is common for saying a moment is unsuitable. Distinguish from sense 26 (IN TIME) which is about being early enough, and from sense 31 ('the most suitable moment') which emphasises optimal timing rather than general suitability.
常見錯誤
26. the state of arriving or finishing early enough to allow something else to happe
及時
趕得上某事的時間
the state of arriving or finishing early enough to allow something else to happen or be done
Jude ran to the station and arrived just in time to catch the train.
Jude 跑到車站,剛好及時趕上火車。
fixed phrase 'just in time' = barely early enough
The team finished the project in time for the Friday deadline.
團隊在週五截止日前及時完成了專案。
pattern: 'in time for [noun/deadline]'
Pedro hoped the ambulance would arrive in time to save the injured man.
Pedro 希望救護車能及時趕到,救那名受傷的男子。
The doctor said the treatment came just in time to stop the infection.
醫生說治療來得正是時候,阻止了感染擴散。
Élise got to the airport in time, even though her taxi was late.
Élise 雖然計程車遲到了,她還是及時趕到了機場。
- early enough
more literal paraphrase; 'in time' is the idiomatic phrase
- with time to spare
more emphatic; means earlier than necessary
- too late
the opposite — arriving after the event has started or finished
文法句型
in time for [noun]
in time to [verb]
just in time
用法筆記
Always appears in the fixed prepositional phrase 'in time (for [noun] / to [verb]).' The adverb 'just' commonly intensifies it ('just in time'). Distinguish from sense 27 (ON TIME) — 'in time' means early enough for a purpose, while 'on time' means at the scheduled exact moment.
常見錯誤
27. the quality of happening or being done at the exact scheduled moment, neither ea
準時
按照預定時間
the quality of happening or being done at the exact scheduled moment, neither earlier nor later than expected
The high-speed train from Taipei arrived on time at the central station.
那班從台北出發的高鐵準時抵達了中央車站。
common context: transport arriving on time
Faisal is very punctual and always pays his rent on time.
Faisal 非常守時,總是準時繳房租。
The school bus rarely comes on time during heavy rain.
下大雨的時候,校車很少準時抵達。
All students must hand in their homework on time every Friday.
所有學生必須每週五準時交作業。
Linh's flight landed on time despite the storm in the area.
Linh 的班機儘管當地有暴風雨,還是準時降落了。
- punctually
more formal; 'on time' is the everyday phrase
- on schedule
often used for projects or events; 'on time' is broader
- late
the opposite — after the scheduled time
- behind schedule
used for longer-term plans or projects
文法句型
on time
用法筆記
Always appears in the fixed adverbial phrase 'on time.' Unlike sense 26 (IN TIME), which means 'early enough for a purpose,' this sense means 'at the exact scheduled time.' 'Punctual' is the adjective form.
常見錯誤
28. the state of being done or happening before a planned or expected moment, leavin
提前
比預定時間早
the state of being done or happening before a planned or expected moment, leaving extra room before a deadline
Christopher booked his train tickets two weeks ahead of time to get a discount.
Christopher 提前兩週預訂了火車票以獲得折扣。
adverbial phrase 'ahead of time' = earlier than necessary
The builders finished the renovation three days ahead of time.
建築工人提前三天完成了翻修工程。
Yasmin prepared all the documents ahead of time so there would be no delay.
Yasmin 提前準備好所有文件,以免造成延誤。
The school asked parents to pay the fee ahead of time for the field trip.
學校要求家長提前繳交戶外教學的費用。
Walid set up the chairs ahead of time before the guests arrived.
Walid 在客人到來之前提前擺好了椅子。
- early
simpler and more direct; 'ahead of time' is more emphatic
- beforehand
similar meaning; 'ahead of time' is more common in everyday speech
- behind schedule
the opposite — later than planned
- late
simpler opposite
文法句型
ahead of time
ahead of schedule
用法筆記
Appears in the fixed phrases 'ahead of time' or 'ahead of schedule.' 'Ahead of schedule' is more common for projects and deadlines. Distinguish from sense 26 (IN TIME) — 'ahead of time' means earlier than the deadline, while 'in time' means early enough to meet it.
常見錯誤
29. a phrase expressing that an expected event or action has been delayed far too lo
早該
早就應該發生的事
a phrase expressing that an expected event or action has been delayed far too long and ought to have taken place already
It is about time the city government fixed these broken street lights.
市政府早該修理這些壞掉的路燈了。
pattern: 'it is about time (that) + past tense clause'
Joshua thought it was high time he looked for a better job.
Joshua 認為他早該找一份更好的工作了。
variant: 'it is high time (that)' = even stronger urgency
It is about time the landlord repaired the broken heater in Rachid's apartment building.
房東早該修理 Rachid 公寓大樓壞掉的暖氣了。
The manager admitted it was high time the company updated its computers.
經理承認公司早該更新電腦設備了。
It is about time we had a proper holiday after three years of hard work.
辛苦工作了三年,我們早該好好放個假了。
- high time
stronger and more emphatic than 'about time'
- long overdue
adjective phrase with similar meaning; more formal
文法句型
it is about time (that)
it is high time (that)
用法筆記
Followed by a clause with the verb in the past tense, even though the meaning refers to the present or future. 'High time' is stronger and more emphatic than 'about time.' Distinguish from sense 30 (FINALLY) which is an exclamation when the anticipated event actually occurs.
常見錯誤
30. an exclamation used when something that was expected or needed for a long time f
總算
終於發生了,早就該發生
an exclamation used when something that was expected or needed for a long time finally happens, expressing relief or mild annoyance at the delay
So you finally passed your driving test — and about time too!
所以你終於通過駕照考試了——早就該過了!
fixed phrase: 'and about time too!' as an exclamation
The government announced a new hospital for the town, and about time, everyone said.
政府宣布在該鎮興建一所新醫院,每個人都說早就該蓋了。
Yuna got a promotion after six years. About time, her colleagues whispered.
Yuna 工作六年後終於升職了。她的同事低聲說,早就該升了。
The landlord finally fixed the leaky pipe. About time, the tenants thought.
房東終於修好了漏水的水管。房客心想,總算修了。
文法句型
and about time too
about time!
用法筆記
An informal exclamation, often used as a standalone response or added after the statement ('…and about time too!'). The clause before it often uses 'finally.' Distinguish from sense 29 (ABOUT TIME), which is a statement of opinion that something should happen; this sense is the reaction when it actually does happen.
常見錯誤
31. used to say that a particular moment has arrived and something should happen now
是時候
表示做某事的合適時機已到
used to say that a particular moment has arrived and something should happen now, because it is the right or expected point for it — for example, saying it is time to leave, or it is time for a break.
It's time to turn off your computer and go home.
是時候關掉電腦回家了。
it is time + to-infinitive for obligation
The teacher looked at the clock and said it was time for lunch.
老師看了時鐘,說午飯時間到了。
it is time + for + noun phrase
Is it not time that we started the meeting?
我們是不是該開始開會了?
Sofia glanced at the clock and knew it was time to leave the office.
Sofia 看了一眼時鐘,知道該離開辦公室了。
After ten years of arguing, the neighbours decided it was time for a proper conversation.
吵了十年之後,鄰居們覺得該好好談一談了。
文法句型
it is time + to-infinitive
it is time + for + noun
it is time + that-clause (subjunctive)
用法筆記
The that-clause after 'it is time' usually uses a past subjunctive verb form ('it is time we went', not 'it is time we go'). This pattern is more common in British English.
常見錯誤
32. the word for a specific event or moment in a person's life, including how it fel
時刻;時光
某事發生的場合或經歷
the word for a specific event or moment in a person's life, including how it felt — for instance, having a wonderful time at the beach, or remembering the time you first rode a bicycle.
The last time I saw Tariq was at the train station in Taipei.
我最後一次見到 Tariq 是在台北車站。
the last time + clause
The children had a wonderful time at the zoo watching the pandas.
孩子們在動物園看貓熊,玩得非常開心。
have + adjective + time
At the time of the accident, Reuben was cycling home from school.
事故發生時,Reuben 正騎腳踏車放學回家。
Remember the time we got lost in the old market downtown?
還記得我們在舊城區市場迷路那次嗎?
Ayana recalled the difficult time her family went through after the flood.
Ayana 回憶起洪水過後家人經歷的那段艱難時光。
- occasion
more formal than 'time' when referring to an event
- instance
used more in formal or written contexts
- experience
focuses on what you felt during the occasion
文法句型
have a + adjective + time
the first/last time
at the time
time + for + noun phrase
用法筆記
When 'time' refers to an occasion, it is countable ('three times', 'a lovely time'). When it means a stretch of hours or days, it is uncountable ('I have no time').
常見錯誤
33. on some rare occasions, but much less often than usual — used when something gen
偶爾;不常
頻率低,不常發生
on some rare occasions, but much less often than usual — used when something genuinely does not happen as a regular pattern
At times, Christopher misses the quiet village where he grew up.
有時 Christopher 會懷念他長大的那個寧靜村莊。
sentence-starting: At times, ...
The job can be stressful at times, but Ilan enjoys the challenge.
這份工作有時壓力很大,但 Ilan 很享受其中的挑戰。
end-position: ... at times
At times the rain was so heavy that the driver could not see the road.
有時雨下得太大,司機連路都看不清楚。
Piotr's grandmother can be forgetful at times, but her stories are always wonderful.
Piotr 的祖母有時會忘東忘西,但她的故事總是很精彩。
- sometimes
more neutral and common than 'at times'
- occasionally
similar frequency but slightly more formal
- from time to time
similar meaning, slightly more emphatic
文法句型
at times
用法筆記
'At times' can appear at the beginning or end of a sentence. It expresses a lower frequency than 'sometimes' and slightly more formal.
常見錯誤
34. repeatedly, happening many times over a period — used when the same thing keeps
一再;屢次
一次又一次地反覆發生
repeatedly, happening many times over a period — used when the same thing keeps occurring, often with a tone of frustration, emphasis, or insistence.
Time after time, the fire alarm went off in the middle of the night.
火災警報一次又一次在半夜響起。
time after time + clause
Rodrigo told the children time and again not to run near the pool.
Rodrigo 一再告訴孩子們不要在水池邊奔跑。
time and again — telling/asking repeatedly
The researchers ran the experiment time after time until they got consistent results.
研究人員一次又一次地做實驗,直到獲得一致的結果。
Quan has proved time and again that hard work can lead to great success.
Quan 一次又一次地證明,努力可以帶來巨大的成功。
- repeatedly
more formal, less emotional than 'time after time'
- over and over
similar meaning, slightly less formal
- again and again
interchangeable with 'time and again'
文法句型
time after time
time and again
time and time again
用法筆記
These expressions are interchangeable. 'Time and again' is slightly more common in spoken English. The repeated action is often one that the speaker finds notable, annoying, or impressive.
常見錯誤
35. on most occasions or for the majority of a period — used to describe what usuall
大部分時候
在大多數情況下或大部分時間裡
on most occasions or for the majority of a period — used to describe what usually or typically happens, though not always.
Most of the time, Yan takes the MRT to work instead of driving.
Yan 大部分時候都搭捷運上班,不開車。
sentence-starting: Most of the time, ...
The café is quiet most of the time, except during lunch hour.
這家咖啡館大部分時候都很安靜,只有午餐時間例外。
end-position: ... most of the time
Zayd is cheerful most of the time, but today he seems worried about something.
Zayd 大部分時候都很開朗,但今天他似乎有心事。
Ravindra's phone battery lasts most of the day, so he rarely carries a charger.
Ravindra 的電話電池大部分時候都撐得了一整天,所以他很少帶充電器。
- usually
one word, simpler, interchangeable
- more often than not
same meaning, slightly more formal or emphatic
- typically
used more in written or formal English
- rarely
opposite meaning — almost never
- occasionally
opposite in degree — only sometimes
文法句型
most of the time
用法筆記
Can also be used with specific time periods ('most of the day', 'most of the week'). The expression 'more often than not' is a close synonym.
常見錯誤
36. continuously or very frequently, without stopping or almost without stopping — u
一直;總是
持續不斷或非常頻繁地
continuously or very frequently, without stopping or almost without stopping — used when something happens throughout a period or keeps happening again and again.
The baby cried all night, so Sofia did not get any sleep.
嬰兒哭了一整夜,Sofia 完全沒睡。
all + [time period] — continuous throughout
Christopher's phone buzzes all the time with messages from work.
Christopher 的電話一直響個不停,都是工作的訊息。
all the time — very frequently
The traffic lights on this street are broken all the time.
這條街的紅綠燈老是故障。
Tariq wears his grandfather's watch all the time, even when swimming.
Tariq 連游泳時都一直戴著祖父送的手錶。
- constantly
more formal; implies no breaks
- always
simpler and more common, though 'always' can suggest every single time
- continuously
formal; emphasizes unbroken duration
文法句型
all the time
用法筆記
'All the time' can mean either 'continuously without pause' or 'very often'. Context tells the difference: 'The fan runs all the time' = continuously; 'She calls me all the time' = very often.
常見錯誤
37. the specific clock time on a particular day, used when locating or scheduling wh
某個時間點
時鐘上的特定時間點
the specific clock time on a particular day, used when locating or scheduling when something happens or happened
By the time Noa reached the station, the last train had already left.
等到 Noa 到達車站時,最後一班火車已經開走了。
phrase: 'by the time' + past perfect
The nurse said she would check on the patient at the same time every evening.
護士說她每晚都會在同一時間來查看病人的情況。
Rohan usually takes his dog for a walk around this time each morning.
Rohan 通常在每天早上這個時候帶他的狗去散步。
At what time does the library open on Sundays?
圖書館星期天幾點開門?
用法筆記
This sense emphasises a clock-based reference point on a specific day (e.g. 'same time every evening', 'by the time I arrived'). Distinguish from sense 22 (MOMENT OF EVENT), which marks the general point when an event occurs regardless of the clock reading.
38. at various specific moments or during particular points in a period, without nec
不時
特定時刻,非持續
at various specific moments or during particular points in a period, without necessarily commenting on how rare or frequent those moments are
At times, the exam felt impossible, but Femi kept trying until the end.
有時候考試感覺難到不行,但 Femi 一直努力到最後。
phrase: 'at times' at start of sentence
Mizuki still misses her hometown, and at times she thinks about moving back.
Mizuki 仍然想念她的家鄉,有時候她會考慮搬回去。
The old car makes a strange noise at times, but it still runs well.
這輛舊車有時候會發出奇怪的聲音,但開起來還是很順。
At times, Sofie wishes she had chosen a quieter place to live.
有些時候,Sofie 希望自己當初選了一個更安靜的地方居住。
- sometimes
more common and neutral in register
- occasionally
more formal; implies less frequent occurrence
- from time to time
slightly more formal; same meaning
- always
opposite in terms of frequency
用法筆記
Fixed phrase. Unlike sense 33 (which emphasises low frequency — 'sometimes but not often'), this sense simply notes that something occurs during certain moments without commenting on how rare those moments are.
常見錯誤
39. a formal expression placed at the start of a clause to emphasise that something
從未;決不
強調在任何時刻都沒有
a formal expression placed at the start of a clause to emphasise that something did not happen at any moment, meaning 'not ever'
At no time did Matthew feel unsafe during the hiking trip.
Matthew 在健行過程中從未感到不安全。
inversion: 'at no time' + auxiliary + subject
The pilot assured us that at no time was the plane in real danger.
機長向我們保證,飛機從未真正處於危險之中。
At no time did anyone ask the children if they wanted to move schools.
從來沒有人問過那些孩子想不想轉學。
The restaurant manager insisted that at no time had they served spoiled food.
餐廳經理堅稱,他們從未提供過變質的食物。
- never
shorter and less formal; no inversion required
- not once
similar emphasis; can also trigger inversion
- under no circumstances
stronger and more formal
- always
opposite in meaning
用法筆記
This formal expression triggers subject-auxiliary inversion when placed at the beginning of a clause: 'At no time did X…' (not 'At no time X did…'). Also common in formal written English.
常見錯誤
40. at any moment or point; whenever something happens or is done
隨時
無論何時,在任何時間點
at any moment or point; whenever something happens or is done
You can call me at any time if you need help with your homework.
你如果有功課需要幫忙,隨時可以打電話給我。
phrase: 'at any time'
The baby could wake up at any time, so Salma stays close to the room.
寶寶隨時都可能醒來,所以 Salma 一直待在房間附近。
At any time during the flight, passengers may ask the crew for water.
在飛行途中的任何時候,乘客都可以向機組人員要水。
Henry told his guests they could leave at any time if they felt tired.
Henry 告訴客人們,如果累了隨時可以離開。
- whenever
more conversational; can replace 'at any time' in most contexts
- at any moment
emphasises immediacy or unpredictability
用法筆記
Often used in offers, permissions, and predictions about when something might occur. In informal speech, 'any time' may be written as 'anytime' (one word) as an adverb.
41. on many occasions; repeatedly over a period
多次;屢次
在許多場合,反覆發生
on many occasions; repeatedly over a period
Lien has visited this museum many times and still finds new things on each trip.
Lien 參觀過這家博物館很多次,每次都能發現新的東西。
present perfect + 'many times'
I have told you many times that the gate must be locked before dark.
我告訴過你很多次,天黑前必須鎖好大門。
Owen checked his phone many times, hoping for a message from the hospital.
Owen 看了手機很多次,希望收到醫院的訊息。
Mateo reminded his brother many times to bring the camping gear.
Mateo 提醒了他弟弟很多次要帶露營裝備。
- often
adverb; suggests a regular frequency rather than counting occasions
- repeatedly
more formal; emphasises that the action happened over and over
- time and again
idiomatic; more emphatic
常見錯誤
42. an era marked by distinctive social features, cultural practices, or notable hap
時代;時期
歷史上的一段時期
an era marked by distinctive social features, cultural practices, or notable happenings that define it
Victorian times were known for strict social rules and rapid industrial growth.
維多利亞時代以嚴格的社會規範和快速的工業發展而聞名。
collocation: '[adjective] times' for historical eras
In ancient times, people told stories around the fire to pass on their history.
在古代,人們圍著火堆講故事,將歷史傳承下去。
The museum exhibit shows how children lived during wartime in the 1940s.
博物館的展覽展示了1940年代戰時兒童的生活樣貌。
Yumi read a novel set in the time of the samurai in old Japan.
Yumi 讀了一本以日本古代武士時代為背景的小說。
These hard times forced many families to leave their farms and move to cities.
這段艱難時期迫使許多家庭離開農場,搬到城市生活。
用法筆記
Often used with an adjective or noun modifier that names the era ('Roman times', 'modern times', 'boom times'). Unlike sense 43 (which refers generally to 'the past'), this sense describes a named or characterised historical period.
43. a period or moment in history that is earlier than the present, especially one t
昔日;從前
指過去的時期或年代
a period or moment in history that is earlier than the present, especially one that people refer to when comparing how things used to be with how they are now.
In times past, people travelled by horse-drawn carriage rather than by car.
昔日,人們乘坐馬車而不是汽車出行。
collocation: in times past
The old photographs reminded Talia of a time when life moved much more slowly.
這些舊照片讓 Talia 想起從前的生活步調慢得多的那個時代。
Yan could remember a time when there were no smartphones and everyone wrote letters.
Yan 還記得一個沒有智慧型手機、大家寫信的年代。
Cyrus knew the village was once a busy trading centre back in earlier times.
Cyrus 知道這個村莊在更早的年代曾經是一個繁忙的貿易中心。
- future
the period that has not yet happened
文法句型
time + when-clause
in + [determiner] + times
用法筆記
Often introduces a contrast between past and present situations. Common in phrases like 'there was a time when' or 'in times past'.
常見錯誤
44. describing someone whose beliefs, artistic style, or habits are so original that
領先時代
思想或作品遠比當代先進
describing someone whose beliefs, artistic style, or habits are so original that most people in that era do not accept them, and appreciation or understanding arrives only after that period has ended.
The painter was ahead of her time — her abstract works shocked the 1920s art world.
這位畫家領先於她的時代——她的抽象作品震撼了1920年代的藝術界。
collocation: ahead of [possessive] time
Élise's ideas on clean energy were before her time — nobody took them seriously for decades.
Élise 關於清潔能源的想法在當時太超前了——數十年來都沒人認真看待。
alternative: before [possessive] time
The composer was far ahead of his time and only became famous after his death.
這位作曲家遠超於他的時代,死後才成名。
That fashion style was ahead of its time and only became popular twenty years later.
那種時尚風格領先於它的時代,二十年後才流行起來。
- visionary
adjective describing a person who sees the future clearly
- pioneering
focuses on being the first to do something new
- forward-thinking
more neutral, less dramatic than 'ahead of one's time'
- old-fashioned
stuck in past ways, opposite of being ahead of the era
文法句型
ahead of + possessive + time
before + possessive + time
用法筆記
Almost always used in the fixed phrase 'ahead of (someone's) time' or 'before (someone's) time'. The subject is typically a person or their work (art, music, inventions).
常見錯誤
45. used to say that an event, object, or cultural reference comes from a date earli
出生前
發生在某人出生或懂事之前
used to say that an event, object, or cultural reference comes from a date earlier than someone's own birth or earlier than the period when they had started paying attention to the world around them.
The Beatles were huge, but that was before Amani's time, so she never saw them.
披頭四紅極一時,但那是在 Amani 出生之前的事,所以她從未看過他們。
structure: before [possessive] time
That TV show ended before Esteban was born — it is completely before his time.
那部電視劇在 Esteban 出生前就播完了——這完全是在他出生之前的事。
The 1985 earthquake happened before Yasmin's time, though her parents still talk about it.
1985年的地震發生在 Yasmin 出生之前,不過她的父母至今仍會提起。
Technicolor films from the 1950s are beautiful, but they were made before my time.
1950年代的彩色電影很美,但它們是在我出生之前拍的。
- predating someone
more formal, used in academic contexts
- older than someone
simpler, less idiomatic
- during one's lifetime
happening while someone is alive
文法句型
before + possessive + time
用法筆記
Common in informal conversation when discussing cultural references, historical events, or older products. Distinguish from sense 44 (AHEAD OF ERA): this sense means 'too early for someone on a personal timeline', not 'too advanced for the era'.
常見錯誤
46. referring to an earlier stretch of years during which a specific set of conditio
從前;曾經
過去某段時期存在某種情況
referring to an earlier stretch of years during which a specific set of conditions or behaviours were true, with the implication that those conditions have since changed.
There was a time when children played outside all day instead of looking at screens.
曾經有一個時期,孩子們整天在外面玩耍,而不是盯著螢幕。
pattern: there was a time when...
At one time, this street was full of small family-run shops and bakeries.
有一陣子,這條街上到處都是家庭經營的小商店和麵包店。
Putri remembered a time when her grandmother made fresh bread every single morning.
Putri 記得有一段時間,她的祖母每天早上都會現做新鮮的麵包。
There was a time when people thought the Sun moved around the Earth.
曾經有一段時期,人們認為太陽繞著地球轉。
- once
adverb, more compact, less descriptive
- formerly
more formal, used in written contexts
- previously
focuses on order in time, not necessarily with nostalgia
文法句型
there was a time when...
at one time...
time when...
用法筆記
Typically opens with 'there was a time when' or 'at one time', followed by a clause describing a past situation. The speaker implies the situation has since changed.
常見錯誤
47. the measured number of minutes, seconds, or hours that a person or team takes to
比賽用時
完成比賽所需的秒數或時數
the measured number of minutes, seconds, or hours that a person or team takes to finish a race, a swim, a run, or another timed sporting event.
Iris's time in the 100-metre race was 11.5 seconds, a new personal best.
Iris 在100公尺賽跑中用時11.5秒,創下個人最佳成績。
collocation: time in [event]
The runner finished the marathon with a time of 3 hours and 2 minutes.
那位跑者以3小時2分鐘的成績完成了馬拉松。
Cyrus improved his time for the 5-kilometre run by nearly a full minute.
Cyrus 在五公里賽跑中的用時比之前快了將近整整一分鐘。
Joshua's swimming coach recorded his best time with a digital stopwatch.
Joshua 的游泳教練用數位碼錶記錄了他的最佳成績。
Selim was happy because his time in the cycling race was faster than last year.
Selim 很開心,因為他在自行車賽中的成績比去年更快。
- duration
more general, not limited to sports
- finish time
specifically the moment of finishing
- record
only if the time is notable enough to be kept
文法句型
[possessive] + time + in/for + [event]
用法筆記
Often used with possessive determiners (his time, her time) and prepositions like 'in', 'for', or 'of'. 'Personal best time' is a very common collocation.
常見錯誤
48. the pattern of evenly spaced pulses within a musical composition — specifically,
拍子;節拍
音樂中小節的拍數或速度
the pattern of evenly spaced pulses within a musical composition — specifically, how many pulses occur in each bar and how quickly those bars follow one another.
The conductor asked the orchestra to keep a steady time of four beats per bar.
指揮要求樂團保持每小節四拍的穩定節拍。
collocation: keep time / beats per bar
Élise struggled to clap in time with the drumbeat during her first music class.
Élise 在第一次音樂課上很難跟著鼓聲合拍鼓掌。
pattern: in time with [something]
This piece of music is written in three-four time, which gives it a waltz-like feel.
這首曲子是以四三拍寫成的,聽起來有華爾滋的感覺。
Yan tapped his foot to keep time while practising the piano at home.
Yan 在家練鋼琴時用腳打拍子以保持節奏。
The drummer set a fast time that made the whole band play with more energy.
鼓手打出了一個很快的節奏,讓整個樂團演奏得更有活力。
文法句型
in + [number] + time
keep time
in time with
用法筆記
In music, 'time' can refer to either the meter (number of beats per bar, e.g. 4/4 time) or the tempo (speed). 'Keep time' means to maintain the correct rhythm. 'In time' means synchronised with the beat.
常見錯誤
49. The period that a convicted criminal is ordered to stay in prison as punishment
刑期
罪犯在監獄服刑的期間
The period that a convicted criminal is ordered to stay in prison as punishment for an offence. Frequently used with the verb 'do' as in 'do time'.
Daichi did time for a robbery he committed when he was nineteen.
Daichi 因為十九歲時犯下搶劫案而服刑。
do time for [crime]
Nia had never expected to serve time in a women's prison.
Nia 從沒想過自己會在女子監獄服刑。
serve time in [institution]
The judge sentenced him to ten years, the longest time the district had ever given.
審判結束後,法官判他十年徒刑,是該地區有史以來最長的刑期。
The former prisoner admitted he had done time for a crime he committed in his youth.
那名前囚犯承認自己年輕時曾因犯罪而服刑。
文法句型
do time
用法筆記
Frequently used with the verb 'do': 'do time' is an informal fixed expression meaning to serve a prison sentence. The definite article is usually omitted in this construction ('do time', not 'do the time').
常見錯誤
50. The legally fixed moment late in the evening when a pub or bar must stop serving
打烊時間
英國酒吧停止營業的時間
The legally fixed moment late in the evening when a pub or bar must stop serving alcohol and ask customers to leave.
The landlord rang a bell and shouted, "Time, ladies and gentlemen, please!"
酒保搖了鈴,喊道:「各位先生女士,打烊時間到了!」
fixed phrase: 'Time, please!' at closing
Amelia and her friends finished their pints before time was called at the White Horse.
Amelia 和她的朋友們在「白馬」酒吧宣布打烊前喝完杯中的啤酒。
In many British villages time is still called at eleven o'clock sharp.
在英國許多村莊,打烊時間仍然是準時晚上十一點。
The pub landlord gave them a five-minute warning before time.
酒吧老闆在打烊前五分鐘提醒了他們。
- closing time
more general term for when any shop or business closes; 'time' in this sense is specific to pubs and bars
用法筆記
Common in fixed expressions: 'time, please!' (the traditional call from a pub landlord), 'time is called' (closing is announced), and 'before time' (before closing). Almost exclusively British.
time — 形容詞
- timepositive
- timercomparative
- timestsuperlative
1. describing a noun that involves or relates to the measurement, passing, or organ
時間的
用來修飾名詞,與時間相關的
describing a noun that involves or relates to the measurement, passing, or organization of time
The exam had a strict time limit of just thirty minutes.
這場考試有嚴格的時間限制,只有三十分鐘。
collocation: time limit
When Hyun flew from Seoul to London, he crossed six different time zones.
Hyun 從首爾飛往倫敦時,跨越了六個不同的時區。
collocation: time zone
Talia's class buried a time capsule under the old oak tree.
Talia 的班級在老橡樹下埋了一個時間膠囊。
Aarav improved his time management skills and finished projects faster.
Aarav 改善了時間管理技巧,更快完成了專案。
Is time travel really possible, or will it remain a fantasy?
時間旅行真的有可能實現,還是只能停留在幻想中?
- temporal
formal synonym, used in academic or scientific writing (C1 level)
- chronological
more specific — relates to the order of events over time
文法句型
time + noun
用法筆記
Always comes directly before a noun. The word 'time' here is an attributive noun — a noun used like an adjective to describe another noun. Common pairings include 'time limit', 'time zone', 'time frame', 'time capsule', and 'time management'. Not used after a linking verb (❌ 'This limit is time').
常見錯誤
time — 字尾
1. added to a noun to form a compound word that refers to a specific period of the
時段;期間
構成複合名詞,表示特定時段
added to a noun to form a compound word that refers to a specific period of the day, the year, or a regular event — for example, daytime (when it is light), lunchtime (when people eat lunch), or summertime (the warmest months).
During the daytime, Mira works from home and answers emails.
白天時,Mira 在家工作並回覆電子郵件。
collocation: during the daytime
Putri always takes a short nap around lunchtime when she feels tired.
Putri 在午餐時間感到疲倦時,通常會小睡片刻。
collocation: around lunchtime
Is the park open at night-time during the colder months of the year?
公園在一年中較冷的月份裡,夜間有開放嗎?
The best thing about summertime is swimming in the warm lake with friends.
夏季最棒的事,就是和朋友在溫暖的湖中游泳。
Before bedtime, the children read a short story with their mother.
就寢前,孩子們會和母親一起讀一篇短篇故事。
文法句型
[noun] + -time (daytime)
[event noun] + -time (lunchtime)
[season noun] + -time (summertime)
用法筆記
Commonly combines with nouns for meals (lunchtime, dinnertime), daily routines (bedtime), seasons (summertime, wintertime), and parts of the day (daytime, night-time). Some compounds are written with a hyphen (night-time) and others as a single word (daytime, bedtime). Learners should check each compound individually, as the pattern is not fully predictable.