時刻
Meanings
1
Refers to a specific point in time, especially the time shown by a clock or scheduled time. Common in compounds and phrases such as 出発時刻 and 現在の時刻.
Please tell me the exact time.
I checked the train's departure time.
2
favorable time; opportunity; chance
A less common, more literary or dramatic use meaning the moment has come for something. In everyday Japanese, 時機, 好機, or チャンス is usually clearer for 'opportunity.'
At last the moment for a counterattack had arrived.
Usage patterns
- 時刻を確認するto check the (scheduled) time
I checked the departure time before boarding the train.
- 時刻になるfor the appointed time to come
The time for the meeting to start has arrived.
- 時刻を過ぎるto pass the scheduled time
The bus still hadn't come even after the scheduled time had passed.
- 時刻通りにright on time; punctually
The shinkansen always arrives right on schedule.