情不自禁

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"情不自禁" is an idiomatic expression meaning "unable to control one's emotions" or "can't help doing something emotionally." It often describes spontaneous emotional reactions such as crying, laughing, or singing.

Common Contexts

This phrase is frequently used in everyday conversation and literature to express moments when feelings overwhelm a person, making them act without restraint.

Typical Collocations

Nuances

Using "情不自禁" implies a natural, involuntary emotional response rather than a deliberate action. It often conveys sincerity and depth of feeling.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "情不自禁" with simple inability or unwillingness. It specifically refers to emotional impulses that one cannot suppress, not just any lack of control.

Example Sentences

Seeing his long-lost friend, he couldn't help but shed tears.

Hearing this song, she couldn't help humming along.

He saw the children playing and couldn't help but laugh.