才
cáiUsed to indicate that something happens after a certain time or condition, often with a sense of 'only then' or 'just'.
他才开始学中文。
He only just started learning Chinese.
我才知道你结婚了。
I only just found out you got married.
Often used to emphasize that an action or realization happened later than expected or after some delay.
Used to express that something is the only thing that can be done or is possible, often with a sense of 'merely' or 'just'.
我才能帮你这么多。
I can only help you this much.
他才会说几句英语。
He can only speak a few words of English.
This usage often conveys a sense of limitation or restriction.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Time vs. Limitation
Pay attention to the context to distinguish between '才' indicating time (e.g., '才知道') and limitation (e.g., '才能').
⚡Gold Rule
Position in Sentence
'才' is typically placed after the subject and before the verb when indicating time, and before the verb or object when indicating limitation.
📖Word Origin
The character '才' originally meant 'talent' or 'ability' in ancient Chinese, but its usage as an adverb to indicate time or limitation developed later.
📝Usage Notes
When used to indicate time, '才' often appears after the subject and before the verb. When used to express limitation, it often appears before the verb or the object.