Talking about time in Chinese isn’t just about knowing the numbers-it’s about grabbing the right words and patterns so you can make plans, share a memory, or just figure out if you’re late. This list hands you around 130 practical time words and expressions, from clock basics to stretches like yesterday, soon, and forever.
We’ve skipped the dusty textbook filler and focused on the vocabulary that shows up in everyday chats, schedules, and stories. Each entry pairs a straightforward meaning with a natural example sentence, so you see exactly how the word behaves in real Chinese.
Tick-tock, language learners — time to make Chinese time words feel easy. Scroll to the bottom of this article for the free printable Chinese time words vocabulary list PDF and the free downloadable printable Chinese time words flashcards, both ready to help you review without the fuss.
Want more than one list? Browse our Chinese section for more Yak Yacker study pages, printable lists, and quiz-friendly review material.
Quick Quiz
Think you’ve locked these time words into memory? Give the quiz a spin-no pressure, just a friendly way to spot what’s sticking and what could use a second pass.
Keep building your Simplified Chinese
Choose a practical next step when you are ready.
Browse the Full List
| Word / Phrase | Pinyin | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 钱 | qián | coin; money; CL:筆|笔[bǐ] |
| 零 | líng | zero; nought; zero sign |
| 飞机 | fēi jī | airplane; CL:架[jià] |
| 饭馆 | fàn guǎn | restaurant; CL:家[jiā] |
| 高兴 | gāo xìng | happy; glad; willing (to do sth) |
Free Chinese Time Words Vocabulary List PDF and Flashcards
Download the Chinese time words vocabulary list from the purple button and the Chinese time words flashcards from the teal button. Everything is 100% free with no signup needed.
