時刻・時剋|じこくjikoku[1]atamadaka (head-high)
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Which spelling to use
時刻時刻 is the most common written form and the usual choice for the meanings “time,” “the hour,” “favourable time,” and “opportunity.”
時剋時剋 is a rarely used written variant. Learners will seldom need to write it and should use 時刻 instead.
Definitions
- nountime; (the) hour
- nounfavourable time; opportunity; chance
Synonyms & antonyms
- Synonym時ときNeutralBroadly covers 'the time when' or occasions, often after a clause as in 「〜した時」. 「時刻」 points to a specific time in hours and minutes.
- Synonym刻限こくげんWrittenWritten, old-fashioned word for an appointed or agreed time. In everyday speech, say 「時刻」 or 「時間」 instead.
- Related時間じかんNeutralCovers both points in time and durations or class periods — the most versatile of the group. 「時刻」 usually pins down a point on the timeline, as in 「発車時刻」.
Use 「時刻」 for a specific time in hours and minutes, and for the right moment to do something. For durations or time in general, pick 「時間」; for 'when…' clauses and occasions, 「時」. 「刻限」 is an old-fashioned written word.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese definitions
Kanji in this word
English equivalents
