Meaning
适当 describes something that is fitting, appropriate, or suitable for a particular situation or purpose. It emphasizes the right degree or measure of something—neither too much nor too little. The word combines 适 (to fit, to suit) and 当 (suitable, proper).
Usage
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe actions, amounts, methods, or timing that are just right for the circumstances. Can function as an adjective (适当的时候 'at the appropriate time') or as an adverb (适当休息 'rest appropriately'). Often paired with words like 时候, 方法, 措施 to describe the appropriateness of timing, methods, or measures.
Examples
- 01运动后要适当休息，不要过度劳累。, .After exercising, you should rest appropriately and not overwork yourself.
- 02我们需要在适当的时候提出这个建议。.We need to propose this suggestion at the appropriate time.
Characters
Common collocations
- 适当的时候at the appropriate time
- 适当休息to rest appropriately
- 适当调整to make appropriate adjustments
- 采取适当措施to take appropriate measures
Antonyms
Origin
The character 适 originally meant 'to go to' but evolved to mean 'to fit' or 'to suit.' 当 means 'to face' or 'to be appropriate.' Together they form a compound emphasizing suitability and appropriateness.