Usage of 随时
The adverb 随时 means "at any time" or "whenever needed." It is commonly used to express readiness or availability without restriction to a specific time.
Common contexts
- Offering help or availability: "随时给我打电话" (call me anytime).
- Indicating possibility or change: "随时可能" (might happen at any time).
Collocations
- 随时准备 (ready at any time): emphasizes preparedness.
- 随时联系 (contact at any time): used in communication contexts.
Nuance
Using 随时 implies flexibility and openness. It is more formal than just saying "任何时候" and often used in spoken and written Chinese to reassure or emphasize availability.
Common confusion
Don't confuse 随时 with 及时 (jíshí), which means "in time" or "promptly." 随时 focuses on unrestricted timing, while 及时 emphasizes timeliness or urgency.