到时候 (dào shíhou) means “when the time comes” or “at that time,” and it’s used to refer to a specific moment or event in the future. It often introduces what will happen once a certain condition or situation occurs.
Structure:
A，到时候 + B
The first part of the sentence (A) sets up a situation or condition, and the second part (B) describes what will happen when that time arrives.
Sample Sentences
我现在还不确定，到时候再决定吧。I’m not sure yet; I’ll decide when the time comes.
我们先定个计划，到时候看情况再调整。Let’s make a plan first, and when the time comes, we can adjust if needed.
现在说这些太早了，到时候再看看吧。It’s too early to talk about this now; we’ll see when the time comes.
In a Text
我最近在考虑要不要换工作。虽然现在的工作稳定，薪水也不错，但我总觉得缺少一点挑战。朋友们都劝我早点行动，说机会难得。不过我不想太冲动，毕竟换工作是一件大事。我想再花点时间了解不同的公司，看看哪一方向更适合自己。到时候如果真的找到一个让我心动的机会，我就会勇敢地去尝试。人生的每一步都需要准备和勇气，到时候无论结果怎样，我都不会后悔。
劝 (quàn): to advise; to urge; to persuade
冲动 (chōngdòng): impulsive; act on impulse
后悔 (hòuhuǐ): to regret; remorse
I’ve been thinking about changing jobs recently. Although my current job is stable and the salary is good, I feel like it lacks challenge. My friends keep telling me to act quickly, saying good opportunities don’t come often. But I don’t want to rush into it — changing jobs is a big decision. I’d rather take some time to research different companies and see which direction suits me best. When the time comes, if I really find an opportunity that excites me, I’ll take the leap. Every step in life requires preparation and courage, and when the time comes, no matter the outcome, I won’t regret it.
Enjoying Mandarin Zest? Help us keep creating weekly posts by making a monthly or yearly pledge. Every bit of support counts — 谢谢！