凑巧

còuqiǎo

fortuitously

HSK 7

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"凑巧" is an adverb used to express a fortunate coincidence or that something happens just at the right time. It often implies a positive or convenient chance occurrence.

Common Contexts

It is frequently used when describing unexpected but helpful or timely events, such as meeting someone by chance or having something needed at the right moment.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 凑巧遇到 (happen to meet): emphasizes a chance meeting.
  • 凑巧 (happen to be free): indicates coincidental availability.
  • 凑巧 (happen to bring): shows a fortunate coincidence in carrying something.

Nuances

Using "凑巧" suggests the speaker feels the coincidence is beneficial or lucky. It is more positive than simply "偶然" (occasionally) and often implies a sense of relief or advantage.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "凑巧" with "" which also means "just in time" but can be more neutral. "凑巧" often carries a slightly more casual and lucky tone.

Example Sentences

我凑巧遇到了他,正好可以帮忙。

Wǒ còuqiǎo yùdào le tā, zhènghǎo kěyǐ bāngmáng.

I happened to meet him, so I could help.

凑巧今天我有空,可以一起去看电影。

Còuqiǎo jīntiān wǒ yǒu kòng, kěyǐ yīqǐ qù kàn diànyǐng.

Coincidentally, I am free today, so we can go watch a movie together.

他凑巧带了备用钥匙,帮我们开了门。

Tā còuqiǎo dài le bèiyòng yàoshi, bāng wǒmen kāi le mén.

He happened to bring a spare key and helped us open the door.