刚才

Pattern visualization

Examples

1. 刚才他来了。▶ —
   He came just now.
2. 刚才你说什么?▶ —
   What did you say just now?

Collocations

Mnemonic

刚才 gāngcái "a moment ago / just now" — 刚 (just) + 才 (only just). Functions as a noun-time word ("the moment just past"). Distinguish from bare 刚 (adverb before V) and 刚刚 gānggāng (also adverb).

Quick check

1. 刚才 vs 刚?

   • noun time vs preverbal adv.
   • same
   • tense
   • emphasis