不得

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Character Breakdown

Usage of 不得

The word 不得 (bùdé) is commonly used to express prohibition or inability. It often means "must not" or "cannot" in formal or written contexts. For example, it appears in rules or laws to indicate something is forbidden, such as 不得 (must not smoke).

Another frequent use is in the pattern 不得不, which means "have to" or "cannot avoid" doing something, implying a forced or unavoidable action.

Common Collocations

Notes

  • 不得 is more formal and often seen in official or written language, unlike the more casual 可以 or .
  • The phrase 不得不 is a fixed expression meaning "have no choice but to" and should not be split.
  • Avoid confusing 不得 (must not) with (cannot) which focuses more on ability rather than permission.

Example Sentences

Smoking is prohibited here; everyone must not smoke.

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

During the exam, bringing a phone into the exam room is not allowed.