The Adverb of Time "就" (jiù)

In Mandarin Chinese, the adverb of time "就" (jiù) is commonly used to indicate that something happens earlier or sooner than expected or anticipated. It can also convey a sense of immediacy or promptness.

Usage:

• Earlier Than Expected: "就" is often used to indicate that something happens earlier than expected or anticipated.
  • 他吃完饭就 离开了。(Tā chī wán fàn jiù líkāi le.) - He left right after finishing his meal.
• Sense of Immediacy: "就" can also convey a sense of immediacy or promptness in an action.
  • 我听到消息就 赶紧走了。(Wǒ tīng dào xiāoxi jiù gǎnjǐn zǒu le.) - I left immediately upon hearing the news.

Examples:

• 他刚到家就 收到了一封重要的邮件。(Tā gāng dào jiā jiù shōudào le yī fēng zhòngyào de yóujiàn.) - He received an important email right after arriving home.
• 她刚出门就 下起了大雨。(Tā gāng chūmén jiù xià qǐ le dàyǔ.) - It started raining heavily as soon as she stepped out.

Additional Notes:

• Context and tone can influence the exact meaning of "就" in different situations.
• "就" is commonly used in spoken language to emphasize promptness or quick action.