‘任期’ (rènqī) literally combines ‘任’ (rèn), meaning ‘to assume a post or duty’, and ‘期’ (qī), meaning ‘period’ or ‘term’. Together, they form a compound noun meaning ‘term of office’ — the fixed or legally defined duration during which a person holds an official position, such as president, mayor, or board member. It is commonly used in political, organizational, and institutional contexts.

This word emphasizes the time-bound nature of authority and responsibility: it starts when someone officially takes office and ends when their mandate expires or is terminated. ‘任期’ is neutral in register but formal in tone, frequently appearing in news reports, legal documents, and official announcements. Unlike general time expressions like ‘时间’ (shíjiān), ‘任期’ always implies an appointed or elected role with defined beginning and end points.