Meaning and Usage
"小时" (xiǎoshí) is a common measure word for time, specifically meaning "hour" or 60 minutes. It is used to express durations or lengths of time in everyday conversation.
Common Collocations
- "几个小时" (jǐ gè xiǎoshí): "several hours" – used to ask or state an approximate duration.
- "工作八个小时" (gōngzuò bā gè xiǎoshí): "work eight hours" – a typical phrase describing a full workday.
- "等待一个小时" (děngdài yī gè xiǎoshí): "wait for an hour" – common in contexts involving waiting times.
Usage Notes
"小时" is always used with a number and the measure word "个" before it when counting hours (e.g., "两个小时"). It is not used alone without a number. When expressing exact times of day, "小时" is not used; instead, "点" (diǎn) is used (e.g., "三点" for 3 o'clock).
Common Confusion
Learners sometimes confuse "小时" with "点". Remember, "小时" measures duration, while "点" indicates the clock time.
Register and Tone
"小时" is neutral and suitable for all registers, from casual to formal speech.