HSK 6
乘机
chéngjī
take the opportunity
Structure
Subject + [Situation/Context] + 乘机 + Verb Phrase
How it works
The word '乘机' (chéngjī) is used to indicate taking advantage of an opportunity or a specific timing to do something. It implies that a certain situation has arisen, and the subject is utilizing that chance to perform another action.
Examples
他想乘机向老板提出加薪的要求。
Tā xiǎng chéngjī xiàng lǎobǎn tíchū jiāxīn de yāoqiú.
He wants to take the opportunity to ask the boss for a raise.
这名球员乘机夺过了球，发动了反击。
Zhè míng qiúyuán chéngjī duóguòle qiú, fādòngle fǎnjī.
The player took the opportunity to steal the ball and launched a counterattack.
既然你来了北京，就乘机多逛逛吧。
Jìrán nǐ láile Běijīng, jiù chéngjī duō guàngguang ba.
Since you are in Beijing, take the opportunity to look around more.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse '乘机' (chéngjī) with '趁机' (chènjī). While synonymous, '趁机' is often used for taking advantage of a loophole or a moment of someone else's weakness, sometimes with a slightly negative connotation, whereas '乘机' is more formal and neutral.
Tip
Think of '乘' as 'to ride' or 'to avail oneself of'. You are 'riding' (乘) the 'opportunity' (机会) to reach your goal.
More HSK 6 grammar
See 乘机 in real Chinese
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