不得不

No base JSON record found for this token.

Character Breakdown

Usage of 不得不

The phrase 不得不 is used to express a situation where someone has no choice but to do something. It conveys a sense of inevitability or compulsion due to external circumstances or necessity.

Common Contexts

It often appears in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as news reports, storytelling, or explanations of decisions. It emphasizes that the action is not voluntary but forced by conditions.

Typical Collocations

Nuance and Register

Using 不得不 implies reluctance or lack of alternatives, which distinguishes it from simply stating a necessity. It is stronger than just 'should' or 'need to' and often implies some regret or pressure.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 不得不 with 应该 or 必须, which express obligation or recommendation without the same sense of helplessness. 不得不 stresses that there is no other option.

Summary

When you want to express that someone is forced by circumstances to do something, use 不得不. It is a useful phrase to show inevitability and often appears in explanations of difficult decisions or unavoidable actions.

Example Sentences

Because of the rain, we had no choice but to cancel the plan.

He got sick and had no choice but to take leave and rest.

Facing difficulties, we have no choice but to work hard to overcome them.

He was too busy with work and had no choice but to give up the travel plan.

For her child's future, she had no choice but to work overtime to earn