Time Adverbs

Time adverbs can point to the past, present, or future, and some adverbs show frequency or duration. Learn a few basic adverbs to describe time clearly.

Time adverbs usually go near the beginning of a sentence or before the main verb so their timing is clear. Because Mandarin word order is flexible, placing the adverb right before the verb keeps the meaning straightforward.

To talk about past events, use adverbs like zuótiān 昨天, yǐqián 以前, or time phrases such as qī tiān qián 七天前 (seven days ago). These adverbs set the scene for what already happened.

For future events, adverbs like míngtiān 明天, yǐhòu 以后, and phrases such as dǎ diànhuà zhīhòu 打电话之后 (after calling) signal what will happen. Place these adverbs at the start or before the verb.

Adverbs of frequency like chángcháng 常常, jīngcháng 经常, and yǒushíhòu 有时候 tell how often something happens. These usually appear before the verb to modify the action.

Adverbs like yíhuìr 一会儿 (a short while), lǎngxiǎo shíjiān 一小时 (an hour), and mǎshàng 马上 (immediately) describe how long something takes or when it happens relative to now. They can go before or after the verb phrase depending on emphasis.

Time adverbs give sentences their temporal context, so learn common ones for the past, present, and future. Place adverbs at the sentence start or before the verb for clear meaning, and use frequency and duration adverbs to add detail.