随心所欲

No base JSON record found for this token.

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The idiom 随心所欲 (suíxīnsuǒyù) means to act according to one's own wishes or desires without restraint. It often implies doing things freely or at will, sometimes with a nuance of disregarding rules or others' opinions.

Common Contexts

This phrase is frequently used to describe behavior that is spontaneous, uninhibited, or self-directed. It can be positive, such as children playing freely, or negative, such as someone acting selfishly without considering others.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuance and Register

The phrase is somewhat literary and formal, often used in written or formal spoken Chinese. It conveys a strong sense of freedom but can carry a slightly critical tone if implying selfishness.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 随心所欲 with 随便, which means 'casually' or 'carelessly.' 随心所欲 stresses acting according to one's inner desires, while 随便 can imply a lack of concern or precision.

Example Sentences

He always does things as he pleases, never considering others' feelings.

The children played freely in the playground, having a great time.

Artists often create freely without any restrictions.