TIME + 就 + predicate often marks earliness, low threshold, or quick transition relative to expectation.
Early/quick reading - action happens already by a given point
Expectation-sensitive - same clock time can feel early/normal depending on context
Contrastive pair with 才 - core timing nuance system
See examples below for varied real-world usage.
Interpret via expectation baseline
- Not absolute clock meaning only.
Do not equate mechanically with immediately
- Nuance depends on discourse context.
Pair practice with 才 improves accuracy
- Learn minimal contrasts in similar sentences.
He left as early as eight.
I got up already at six this morning.
The meeting starts as early as one pm.
She goes running already at six even on weekends.
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