Meaning and Usage
'届时' is a formal adverb used to refer to a specific future time when an event or action is expected to occur. It often appears in announcements, invitations, or formal communication to indicate 'at that time' or 'when the time comes.'
Common Contexts
It is frequently used in planning or scheduling contexts, such as meetings, events, deadlines, or any situation where a future moment is anticipated.
Collocations and Patterns
- 届时 + verb: Indicates what will happen or what is expected at that future time.
- 届时请 + verb: A polite request or instruction for behavior at that time.
Usage Notes
'届时' is more formal than simply saying '那时' or '到时候' and is often found in written or formal spoken Chinese. It implies a certain certainty or official scheduling of the event. Avoid using it in casual conversations where more colloquial expressions are preferred.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse '届时' with '及时' (in time, timely). '届时' points to a predetermined future time, while '及时' emphasizes promptness or timeliness in action.