Korean Dictionary
How to say "On Time" in Korean
“On Time” in Korean is 시간에 맞춰 (pronounced "sigan-e matchwo").
시간에 맞춰
sigan-e matchwo
Usage & Context
The phrase for on time, indicating something happens at the scheduled time. This is commonly used in punctuality and reliability.
Example Sentence
나는 항상 시간에 맞춰 도착해요.
I always arrive on time.
How to use 시간에 맞춰 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “On Time” is 시간에 맞춰, romanized as sigan-e matchwo.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 시간에 맞춰.
Pronunciation Guide
'시' (si) sounds like 'see'. '간' (gan) sounds like 'gahn'. '에' (e) sounds like 'eh'. '맞' (mat) sounds like 'maht'. '춰' (chwo) sounds like 'chwoh', like 'ch' in 'chair' followed by 'wo' in 'won'.
More Example Sentences
Describing reliable public transport.
기차는 항상 시간에 맞춰 출발해요.
The train always departs on time.
A polite request for punctuality.
시간에 맞춰 오세요.
Please come on time.
Reporting successful project completion.
우리는 시간에 맞춰 프로젝트를 끝냈어요.
We finished the project on time.
Cultural Context
Being '시간에 맞춰' (on time) is highly regarded in South Korea, reflecting respect for others' time and commitment. This applies to everything from business meetings to social gatherings. If you're running even slightly late, it's customary to send a quick message to inform the other party, often with an apology. This phrase emphasizes the importance of punctuality in daily life and professional interactions.
Editorial note
We review entries like 시간에 맞춰 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
시간에 맞춰 도착하다
to arrive on time
시간에 맞춰 준비하다
to prepare on time
시간에 맞춰 시작하다
to start on time
Related Expressions
정시에
jeongsie
on time (at the exact time)
제시간에
jesigan-e
on time (at the right time)
늦게
neutge
late (antonym)
일찍
iljjik
early (related concept)
More Numbers and Time Words
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