1.
around the clock, all the time, day and night
Constantly, without interruption. Emphasizes that something continues throughout the entire day. Derived from 4 × 6 = 24 (hours).
四六時中スマホを見ている。
You're looking at your phone all the time.
彼は四六時中仕事のことを考えている。
He thinks about work around the clock.
赤ちゃんが生まれてから、四六時中目が離せない。
Since the baby was born, I can't take my eyes off them day or night.
ETYMOLOGY:
From 四 × 六 = 24, referring to the 24 hours in a day. An older form 二六時中 (2 × 6 = 12) referred to the old Japanese system of 12 time divisions per day.
USAGE:
Often carries a slightly exaggerated or critical tone, implying someone is doing something too much or obsessively.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 四六時中～している: to be doing ~ all the time
- 四六時中考える: to think about constantly
- 四六時中一緒: together all the time