rechtzeitig
on time · timely
Etwas geschieht früh genug, sodass es nicht zu spät ist.
The German word "rechtzeitig" is an adjective or adverb meaning "timely" or "on time". It is made up of:
- "recht" – meaning "right" or "correct"
- "zeitig" (from "Zeit") – relating to "time"
So, "rechtzeitig" literally means "at the right time".
Similar words:
- pünktlich (punctual, on time)
- fristgerecht (within the deadline)
Difference:
- "rechtzeitig" emphasizes doing something early enough or before a deadline, often allowing some buffer time.
- "pünktlich" means exactly at the appointed time, neither earlier nor later.
- "fristgerecht" strictly relates to meeting deadlines or legal time frames.
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Examples
Er kommt immer rechtzeitig zur Arbeit.adverb
He always arrives at work on time.
Du musst deine Aufgaben rechtzeitig erledigen.adverb
You must complete your tasks on time.
Der Zug kam rechtzeitig am Bahnhof an.adverb
The train arrived at the station on time.
Er kam rechtzeitig zum Konzert an.adverb
He arrived on time for the concert.
Ein rechtzeitiger Hinweis hätte das Problem vermieden.adjective
A timely hint would have avoided the problem.
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