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A2 interjection #1,200 le plus courant 11 min de lecture

算了

suàn le Top 1,200

At the absolute beginner level, learning this phrase is essential for basic survival communication in a Chinese-speaking environment. When you are first learning the language, you will inevitably encounter situations where communication breaks down, or where a simple transaction becomes too complicated to navigate with a limited vocabulary. In these moments, this phrase acts as your linguistic emergency exit. If you are trying to buy something at a market and cannot understand the vendor's explanation of the price, or if you are trying to order a specific dish at a restaurant and the waiter is asking complex follow-up questions you do not comprehend, you can simply smile, shake your head slightly, and say this word. It politely signals to the other person that you are abandoning the attempt and that they do not need to try to explain further. It is much more natural and effective than simply walking away in silence, which would be considered rude. Furthermore, it is a highly useful phrase for changing your mind about simple plans. If you suggest going to the park, but then look out the window and see that it is raining heavily, you can point to the rain and say the phrase to indicate that the plan is canceled. Because it is so short and easy to pronounce, it is one of the first interjections that beginners should memorize. It empowers you to manage the flow of interaction, allowing you to gracefully exit conversations or situations that exceed your current language capabilities without causing offense or awkwardness. Practice saying it with a gentle, descending tone to convey a polite sense of 'never mind'.

As you progress to the elementary level, your ability to form simple sentences expands, and your use of this phrase should evolve accordingly. At this stage, you are no longer just using it as a standalone emergency exit; you are beginning to integrate it into basic sentence structures to express conditional changes in plans and minor frustrations. You will start using it in conjunction with simple conjunctions like 如果 (if) and 既然 (since). For example, you can now construct sentences like 'If it is too expensive, then forget it' (如果太贵，那就算了) or 'Since you are busy, forget it' (既然你很忙，就算了). This demonstrates a significant leap in conversational competence, as you are actively negotiating plans and accommodating the circumstances of others. Additionally, you will begin to understand its use in the context of minor interpersonal friction. If a friend is late and apologizes, you might use this phrase to indicate that you are slightly annoyed but are choosing not to make a big deal out of it, allowing the friendship to proceed smoothly. You will also notice native speakers using it to dismiss their own mistakes or clumsy moments. If someone drops a piece of paper and decides not to pick it up immediately, they might mutter the phrase to themselves. At the A2 level, mastering the placement of the phrase at the end of a clause, often followed by the suggestion particle 吧 (ba), is crucial. Saying 算了吧 (suàn le ba) softens the abruptness, turning a hard cancellation into a gentle suggestion to drop the matter. This subtle shift in tone is a key marker of progressing beyond basic survival Chinese into more natural, socially aware communication.

Reaching the intermediate level means you are now engaging in more complex social interactions, and your understanding of this phrase must deepen to encompass its role in emotional regulation and conflict resolution. At the B1 level, you will encounter the phrase in situations involving genuine disagreement or disappointment. It is no longer just about canceling a trip to the park because of rain; it is about navigating the delicate balance of 'face' (面子) in Chinese culture. When an argument with a colleague or a friend reaches an impasse, using this phrase is a strategic move to de-escalate the tension. It communicates, 'We are not going to agree, and continuing to argue will damage our relationship, so I am choosing to stop.' This requires a nuanced understanding of intonation. A harsh, abrupt delivery can sound incredibly passive-aggressive, implying 'I am right, but you are too stubborn to see it, so I give up on you.' Conversely, a soft, repeated delivery (算了，算了) acts as a soothing mechanism, genuinely aiming to restore harmony. You will also start using it to express resignation towards circumstances beyond your control, such as bureaucratic hurdles or unfair situations at work. Furthermore, at this level, you should be comfortable distinguishing it from similar phrases like 没关系 (it doesn't matter) and 无所谓 (I don't care), knowing exactly when the specific nuance of 'abandoning an effort' is required. You will frequently hear it in intermediate listening materials, such as television dramas and podcasts, where it serves as a critical pivot point in character interactions and plot development. Mastering its emotional weight is essential here.

At the upper-intermediate level, your grasp of the phrase extends into the realm of rhetorical devices, subtle psychological manipulation, and complex narrative storytelling. You are now capable of understanding how the phrase is used not just to end a conversation, but to make a point. In debates or persuasive speech, a speaker might use it rhetorically to dismiss an opponent's minor argument before focusing on the main issue: 'Let's forget about that minor detail for a moment...' (那个细节就算了...). You will also encounter its use in expressing profound emotional exhaustion or a sense of betrayal in complex relationships. In literature and sophisticated television dramas, a character might say this single word after a long, emotionally draining monologue, signifying a complete withdrawal of emotional investment from a partner or a family member. At the B2 level, you should be able to employ it in complex grammatical structures, such as using it to contrast two situations: 'If it were just a small mistake, I would let it go, but this is a major error' (如果是小错误就算了，但这是个大错误). Furthermore, you will begin to appreciate its role in modern Chinese internet slang and youth culture, where it often embodies a collective sense of societal fatigue or the 'lying flat' (躺平) mentality. It becomes a philosophical statement about choosing mental peace over relentless striving. Your production of the phrase should now perfectly match the required social register, ensuring you never accidentally offend a superior or sound overly dramatic in a trivial situation. You are using it not just to communicate facts, but to manage the complex emotional undercurrents of advanced social interactions.

Entering the advanced level, your analysis of this phrase becomes highly sociolinguistic and culturally analytical. You are no longer just using the word; you are observing how native speakers use it to navigate the intricate web of Chinese social hierarchy, obligations, and unspoken rules. At the C1 level, you understand that saying this phrase is often a performative act of magnanimity. By publicly declaring that you are 'letting something go', you are demonstrating your broad-mindedness (大度) and accumulating social capital. You recognize the subtle power dynamics at play: the person who says 'forget it' is often claiming the moral high ground by being the one to end the conflict. You will also encounter the phrase in advanced reading materials, such as opinion pieces, essays, and modern literature, where it is used to critique societal trends or express a cynical detachment from political or social issues. You are capable of discussing the psychological implications of the phrase, analyzing whether it represents healthy acceptance or unhealthy suppression of emotions in Chinese society. Furthermore, you can seamlessly substitute it with more formal or literary equivalents like 作罢 (to drop the matter) or 不予追究 (to not pursue further) depending on the strictness of the register. Your listening comprehension allows you to detect the faintest traces of sarcasm, bitterness, or genuine relief in a native speaker's pronunciation of the word, even over the phone or in noisy environments. You use it effortlessly to control the pacing and emotional temperature of complex, high-stakes negotiations or deeply personal conversations.

At the mastery level, your understanding of this phrase is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You view the phrase not merely as a vocabulary item, but as a linguistic artifact that reflects deep-seated Chinese philosophical traditions, particularly Daoism and the concept of Wuwei (无为) - non-action or effortless action. The ultimate expression of '算了' is a profound, almost spiritual acceptance of the natural flow of events and the futility of forcing outcomes against the grain of reality. You can engage in high-level academic or philosophical discourse about how this everyday interjection encapsulates the traditional Chinese worldview of cyclicality and balance. In your own speech, you deploy the phrase with absolute precision, using it to navigate the most delicate and complex social situations with grace and effortless diplomacy. You understand its historical evolution, how its usage might vary slightly across different regions of the Chinese-speaking world, and how it has been adapted by different generations. You can analyze its presence in classical literature, tracing its conceptual roots back through centuries of text. When you use the phrase, it carries the full weight of its cultural history, perfectly calibrated to the exact emotional, social, and philosophical requirements of the moment. You are not just speaking Chinese; you are embodying the cultural mindset that produced the language, using this simple two-character phrase as a masterkey to unlock profound levels of interpersonal harmony and personal peace.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

算了 en 30 secondes

Used to say 'forget it' or 'never mind' in daily life.
Helps to politely end arguments or cancel difficult plans.
Shows resignation or acceptance of a situation you cannot change.
A key phrase for maintaining social harmony and saving face.

The Chinese phrase 算了 is one of the most frequently used interjections in daily conversation, serving as a versatile tool for expressing resignation, forgiveness, or a decision to abandon a course of action. To truly understand this expression, we must first look at its literal components. The character 算 originally means to calculate, to compute, or to figure out. The character 了 is a highly common particle in Mandarin Chinese that indicates the completion of an action or a change of state. Therefore, the literal translation of the phrase would be something akin to the calculation is completed or the reckoning is finished. From this literal meaning, the phrase evolved metaphorically. If a calculation is finished, there is nothing more to be done; the matter is settled, and one should move on. In modern usage, this translates perfectly to the English expressions forget it, let it be, never mind, or let it go.

太贵了，算了。

Literal Meaning: The calculation is finished, meaning the matter is closed.

People use this phrase in a wide variety of contexts, ranging from minor daily inconveniences to significant emotional realizations. For instance, if you are trying to fix a broken appliance and realize it is beyond repair, you might sigh and use this phrase to indicate that you are giving up the effort.

既然你不想去，那就算了。

In interpersonal relationships, it serves as a powerful de-escalation tool. When an argument is brewing and one party realizes that continuing the dispute will only lead to more anger and no resolution, saying this phrase signals a willingness to drop the subject. It is a verbal white flag, though sometimes it can carry a tone of passive-aggressive frustration depending on the speaker's intonation.

Emotional Tone: Can range from genuine forgiveness to bitter resignation.

我不想吵了，算了。

Furthermore, the phrase is deeply embedded in the cultural concept of maintaining social harmony. In Chinese culture, preserving relationships and avoiding unnecessary confrontation is highly valued. By choosing to let something go, you are prioritizing the overarching peace of the relationship over being right about a specific issue.

没关系，算了吧。

When repeated, it often sounds like a gentle coaxing, either to oneself or to another person, encouraging them not to dwell on a mistake or a misfortune. For example, if a friend accidentally spills water on your shirt and is apologizing profusely, you would say it twice to reassure them that you are not angry and that they should not worry about it.

Social Function: Acts as a social lubricant to smooth over awkward or tense situations.

买不到票就算了。

Ultimately, mastering this phrase is essential for any learner who wishes to sound natural and emotionally intelligent in Chinese. It demonstrates an understanding that not every battle needs to be fought, not every problem needs to be solved immediately, and sometimes, the best course of action is simply to accept the situation as it is and move forward without lingering resentment or frustration.

Using this phrase correctly in sentences requires an understanding of its syntactic flexibility. It can function as an independent sentence, a concluding remark, or a conditional clause. The most straightforward way to use it is as a standalone interjection. When someone suggests an idea that you initially agreed to but later realize is too difficult, you can simply say the word by itself.

下雨了，我们还是算了吧。

Standalone Usage: Used entirely on its own to abruptly end a conversation or plan.

In this standalone form, the intonation is crucial. A sharp, quick delivery implies frustration or anger, whereas a drawn-out, sighing delivery implies genuine resignation or exhaustion.

这件事就这么算了。

Another highly common structure is using it in conditional sentences, often paired with words like 既然 (since) or 如果 (if). For example, you might say, 'If you are too tired, then forget it' (如果你太累了，那就算了). This structure is incredibly useful for offering someone a polite way out of an obligation.

Conditional Structure: Often follows a condition that makes the original plan unviable.

如果不行就算了。

It is also frequently combined with the word 就 (jiù), which acts as an intensifier or a logical connector meaning 'then'. The phrase 那就算了 (then forget it) is a staple in everyday negotiations. If a vendor refuses to lower their price to your desired amount, you can say this phrase and walk away.

今天太晚了，算了吧。

Furthermore, the phrase can be used to dismiss a topic of conversation that is becoming uncomfortable or boring. If you are trying to explain a complex concept and the listener is visibly confused and losing interest, you might stop mid-sentence and use this phrase to indicate that the explanation is not worth the effort and it is better to change the subject.

Topic Dismissal: Used to abruptly end an explanation or a story that is not landing well.

跟你说不清楚，算了。

In written Chinese, especially in informal contexts like text messages or social media posts, it is used exactly as it is in spoken language. It is a highly versatile tool that allows the speaker to navigate social interactions smoothly, offering a polite exit strategy from plans, arguments, and tedious conversations alike. Understanding these structural variations will greatly enhance your conversational fluency.

You will hear this phrase absolutely everywhere in Chinese-speaking environments, as it is an indispensable part of the linguistic landscape. Its prevalence spans across all demographics, from young children negotiating playtime to elderly individuals discussing philosophical acceptance of life's hardships. One of the most common places you will encounter it is in commercial settings, particularly during bargaining or shopping.

老板不肯便宜，那就算了。

Marketplaces: A standard phrase used when walking away from a negotiation that failed.

If a customer feels an item is overpriced and the shopkeeper refuses to offer a discount, the customer will often say this phrase as they turn to leave. It signals the definitive end of the transaction.

没有牛肉面了？那算了，我换一家。

Another extremely common context is within the household, among family members or romantic partners. Domestic life is full of minor compromises and abandoned plans. If a couple plans to go to the movies but one person comes home exhausted from work, the other might use this phrase to cancel the outing without causing guilt.

Domestic Life: Used constantly to adjust daily plans and manage household expectations.

你太累了，今天大扫除就算了吧。

However, in romantic relationships, the phrase can sometimes carry a heavy emotional weight. If during a heated argument one partner suddenly stops yelling, sighs deeply, and says the word, it often indicates a profound sense of disappointment or a feeling that the other person will never understand them. It is the sound of emotional withdrawal.

你不懂我的意思，算了。

You will also hear it frequently in the workplace, though usually in more informal interactions between colleagues rather than in official meetings with superiors. If a team is trying to brainstorm a solution to a minor problem and spending too much time on it, a colleague might suggest dropping the issue to focus on more important tasks.

Workplace Efficiency: Used to prevent time-wasting on trivial matters during collaborative work.

这个细节不重要，算了，我们看下一项。

Finally, it is a staple of modern Chinese internet culture. In an era characterized by high stress and intense competition, many young people have adopted a philosophy of letting things go to protect their mental health. The phrase perfectly encapsulates this modern coping mechanism, appearing in countless memes, social media posts, and online videos as a humorous yet poignant reflection on the difficulties of modern life.

While the phrase is incredibly common, learners of Chinese often make several predictable mistakes when trying to incorporate it into their own speech. The most frequent error is misunderstanding the emotional nuance and using it in situations where a more formal or polite apology or refusal is required. Because the phrase inherently implies a sense of giving up or dropping a matter, using it with someone of higher status, such as a boss or a teacher, can come across as dismissive, disrespectful, or overly casual.

老板，这个项目太难了，算了吧。（Incorrect usage in formal context）

Formality Error: Using it to refuse a task from a superior sounds insubordinate.

Instead of using this phrase to tell a boss that a project is too hard, a learner should use more professional language to explain the difficulties. Another common mistake is confusing it with phrases that mean 'it doesn't matter' or 'no problem', such as 没关系 (méi guān xi) or 无所谓 (wú suǒ wèi).

A: 谢谢你！ B: 算了。（Incorrect response to gratitude）

While there is some overlap in meaning, they are not always interchangeable. For example, if someone apologizes for stepping on your foot, saying 没关系 means 'it is okay, I am not hurt', whereas saying the target phrase might imply 'I am annoyed, but I am choosing not to make a big deal out of it'. The latter can inadvertently make the person apologizing feel worse.

Nuance Confusion: Failing to recognize the slight undertone of resignation or annoyance.

对不起，我迟到了。——算了，下次注意点。

Learners also sometimes struggle with the grammatical placement of the phrase. It should generally be placed at the beginning or the end of a clause, acting as an interjection or a concluding thought. Placing it awkwardly in the middle of a sentence disrupts the natural flow of Mandarin syntax.

我算了不去。（Incorrect grammar, should be 我不去了，算了）

Finally, overusing the phrase can make a learner sound perpetually pessimistic, unmotivated, or easily frustrated. Because the phrase is fundamentally about giving up or abandoning an effort, saying it too frequently in a short period can project a negative attitude. It is important to balance its use with positive affirmations and expressions of perseverance to maintain a well-rounded and natural conversational persona.

Overuse: Using it too often makes you sound like you lack determination.

学中文太难了，算了我不学了。（Don't give up!）

By being mindful of the context, the relationship with the listener, and the subtle emotional undertones, learners can avoid these common pitfalls and use the phrase effectively.

To build a rich and nuanced Chinese vocabulary, it is highly beneficial to understand the landscape of words and phrases that share similarities with our target phrase. While it is incredibly versatile, there are specific situations where an alternative expression might be more precise, more polite, or more emotionally accurate. One of the most common alternatives is 没关系 (méi guān xi), which translates to 'it doesn't matter' or 'that is okay'.

没关系，我不介意。

没关系 (méi guān xi): More polite and reassuring than the target phrase, used to accept apologies.

If someone accidentally bumps into you on the subway and apologizes, saying 没关系 is the standard, polite response. It reassures the other person that no harm was done. Using our target phrase in this scenario might imply that you are slightly annoyed but are choosing not to start a fight, which is less polite.

吃什么都行，我无所谓。

Another excellent alternative is 无所谓 (wú suǒ wèi), which means 'I don't care' or 'it makes no difference to me'. This is used when you genuinely have no preference regarding a choice or an outcome. For example, if a friend asks whether you want to eat Chinese food or Italian food, and you are happy with either, you would use 无所谓.

无所谓 (wú suǒ wèi): Indicates neutrality or apathy towards a specific choice or situation.

随他去吧，别管了。

For situations where you are advising someone else to let go of a grievance or to stop worrying about something beyond their control, the phrase 随他去吧 (suí tā qù ba), meaning 'let it be' or 'let him do as he pleases', is very appropriate. It carries a philosophical tone of detachment.

由于资金不足，计划只好作罢。

In formal written Chinese, such as in news reports or official documents, you would rarely use our target phrase. Instead, you would use terms like 放弃 (fàng qì), meaning 'to give up' or 'to abandon', or 作罢 (zuò bà), meaning 'to drop the matter'.

作罢 (zuò bà): Formal written vocabulary for abandoning a course of action.

既然如此，此事就此作罢。

By mastering these alternatives, you can tailor your language to the specific social context, ensuring that you convey the exact level of politeness, formality, and emotional detachment required for the situation. This level of precision is what separates an intermediate learner from an advanced speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"鉴于目前的情况，该提案只能作罢。"

Neutre

"既然大家都没时间，今天的会议就算了吧。"

Informel

"太贵了，算了算了，不买了。"

Child friendly

"积木倒了没关系，算了，我们重新搭！"

Argot

"你不去拉倒，我自己去。"

Le savais-tu ?

In some historical contexts, '算了' could also mean 'to settle a score' or 'to take revenge' (as in settling an account with an enemy). However, in modern daily Mandarin, this aggressive meaning has almost entirely faded, replaced by the peaceful meaning of letting things go. You will only hear the aggressive version in specific phrases like '跟你算了这笔账' (I will settle this score with you).

Guide de prononciation

UK /swæn lə/

US /swæn lə/

The stress is entirely on the first character '算' (suàn), which carries a sharp, falling fourth tone. The second character '了' (le) is completely unstressed and neutral.

Rime avec

换了 (huàn le) 看了 (kàn le) 断了 (duàn le) 乱了 (luàn le) 散了 (sàn le) 转了 (zhuàn le) 半个 (bàn ge) 暗了 (àn le)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'le' with a full tone (like 'luh' with a rising or falling pitch) instead of a neutral, clipped tone.
Failing to make the fourth tone on 'suàn' sharp and descending enough, making it sound like a question.
Adding an 'r' sound at the end (suàn ler), which is a regional Beijing accent but not standard Mandarin.
Pronouncing the 'u' in 'suan' too heavily, making it sound like two distinct syllables (soo-an) instead of a smooth glide.
Speaking the phrase too slowly; it should be delivered quickly as a single unit of thought.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

Extremely easy to read. Both characters are among the first 100 characters taught to beginners.

Écriture 2/5

'算' has 14 strokes and requires some practice to balance the top and bottom components correctly. '了' is only 2 strokes.

Expression orale 3/5

Pronunciation is easy, but mastering the correct intonation (frustrated vs. gentle) requires significant listening practice.

Écoute 3/5

Because it is often spoken very quickly and mumbled, beginners might miss it in fast, natural speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

了 (le - completion particle) 不 (bù - no/not) 去 (qù - to go) 买 (mǎi - to buy) 好 (hǎo - good/okay)

Apprends ensuite

没关系 (méi guān xi - it doesn't matter) 无所谓 (wú suǒ wèi - I don't care) 随便 (suí biàn - whatever/casual) 放弃 (fàng qì - to give up) 原谅 (yuán liàng - to forgive)

Avancé

作罢 (zuò bà - to drop the matter) 妥协 (tuǒ xié - to compromise) 豁达 (huò dá - open-minded/optimistic) 顺其自然 (shùn qí zì rán - let nature take its course) 不了了之 (bù liǎo liǎo zhī - to end up with nothing definite)

Grammaire à connaître

The '既然...就...' (Since... then...) Structure

既然你不想去，那就算了。 (Since you don't want to go, then forget it.)

The '如果...就...' (If... then...) Structure

如果太麻烦，就算了吧。 (If it's too troublesome, let's forget it.)

The Particle '吧' for Suggestions

今天就算了吧。 (Let's just forget it for today.)

Reduplication for Softening Tone

算了算了，别生气了。 (Forget it, forget it, don't be angry.)

Using '还是' to indicate a final, reconsidered decision

我想了想，还是算了。 (I thought about it, better forget it.)

Exemples par niveau

太贵了，算了。

Too expensive, forget it.

Used as a standalone phrase to cancel an intended action.

下雨了，算了。

It's raining, forget it.

Placed after a statement of fact that changes a plan.

我不要了，算了。

I don't want it anymore, forget it.

Reinforces a negative decision.

没有水了？算了。

No water? Never mind.

Used to accept a minor disappointment.

我不去了，算了。

I am not going, forget it.

Used to cancel personal participation in an event.

算了吧，回家吧。

Let it be, let's go home.

Adding '吧' makes it a gentle suggestion.

买不到，算了。

Can't buy it, forget it.

Used after a failed attempt to do something.

太远了，算了。

Too far, forget it.

Used when an obstacle is deemed too difficult.

如果你太累，那就算了。

If you are too tired, then forget it.

Used with '如果...就...' (if... then...) structure.

既然没时间，就算了吧。

Since there is no time, let's forget it.

Used with '既然...就...' (since... then...) structure.

这件事就算了吧。

Let's just drop this matter.

Used with '这件事' (this matter) to close a topic.

找不到就算了，买新的。

If you can't find it, forget it, buy a new one.

Used to propose an alternative solution after giving up.

算了，我不想吵架。

Forget it, I don't want to argue.

Used at the beginning of a sentence to state an intention to stop.

算了算了，没关系。

Forget it, forget it, it's okay.

Repeated for emphasis and to soften the tone.

他不想来就算了。

If he doesn't want to come, forget it.

Used to dismiss someone else's lack of participation.

今天就算了，明天再说。

Let's forget it for today, we'll talk tomorrow.

Used to postpone an action to a later time.

本来想去旅游，现在没钱，只好算了。

Originally wanted to travel, now have no money, have to forget it.

Used with '只好' (have to) to express forced resignation.

我跟他解释不通，干脆算了。

I can't get through to him, I might as well just forget it.

Used with '干脆' (might as well) for decisive abandonment.

算了，就当花钱买个教训吧。

Forget it, just treat it as spending money to buy a lesson.

Used to rationalize a loss and move on.

你不想帮忙就算了，别说风凉话。

If you don't want to help, forget it, but don't make sarcastic remarks.

Used to set boundaries during a conflict.

这件衣服虽然好看，但太贵了，还是算了。

Although this dress is pretty, it's too expensive, better forget it.

Used with '还是' (had better) to indicate a final, reluctant choice.

既然大家意见不合，这个提议就算了。

Since everyone disagrees, let's drop this proposal.

Used in a formal setting to dismiss an unworkable idea.

算了，我不跟你计较。

Forget it, I won't argue with you over this.

Used to claim the moral high ground by refusing to argue.

等了半天也不来，算了，我们走吧。

Waited a long time and they didn't come, forget it, let's go.

Used to conclude a period of futile waiting.

如果是无心之过就算了，但他明明是故意的。

If it were an unintentional mistake, I'd let it go, but he clearly did it on purpose.

Used in a contrastive conditional sentence to highlight unacceptability.

算了，事已至此，多说无益。

Forget it, things have reached this point, saying more is useless.

Paired with formal four-character idioms (事已至此, 多说无益).

他那个人就是那样，你跟他生气也白搭，算了。

He is just like that, getting angry at him is useless, let it go.

Used to advise emotional detachment from a difficult person.

本来还想争取一下，看他那态度，想想还是算了。

Originally wanted to fight for it, but seeing his attitude, thinking about it, better forget it.

Expresses an internal thought process leading to resignation.

这笔账就算了，以后别再提了。

Let's write off this debt, don't mention it again in the future.

Used metaphorically to forgive a debt or a past grievance.

你如果不愿意，我也不勉强，就算了吧。

If you are unwilling, I won't force you, let's just drop it.

Used to show respect for someone else's boundaries.

算了，权当是一次失败的尝试吧。

Forget it, let's just consider it a failed attempt.

Used with '权当' (consider it as) to reframe a negative outcome.

我都道歉了你还想怎样？算了，随便你吧。

I've already apologized, what more do you want? Forget it, suit yourself.

Used to express deep frustration when an attempt at reconciliation fails.

面对这种不可抗力，我们也只能说一句算了。

Facing this kind of force majeure, we can only say 'let it be'.

Used to describe the phrase itself as a symbol of ultimate resignation.

他叹了口气，一句“算了”包含了多少无奈与心酸。

He sighed, a single 'forget it' containing so much helplessness and sorrow.

Used in a literary context to analyze the emotional depth of the phrase.

在职场中，懂得适时地说“算了”，是一种高级的生存智慧。

In the workplace, knowing when to appropriately say 'let it go' is a high-level survival wisdom.

Discussing the phrase as a strategic tool in professional environments.

与其在无意义的争执中内耗，不如干脆算了，放过自己。

Rather than suffering internal friction in meaningless disputes, it's better to just let it go and spare yourself.

Used in the context of modern mental health and self-care discourse.

那些陈芝麻烂谷子的事，就算了吧，何必耿耿于怀。

Those old, rotten matters, let them go, why take them to heart?

Paired with colloquial idioms (陈芝麻烂谷子) to dismiss past grievances.

他本欲发作，但转念一想，大局为重，便硬生生将火气压下，说了句算了。

He was about to explode, but on second thought, prioritizing the big picture, he forcefully suppressed his anger and said 'forget it'.

Describing the internal conflict before uttering the phrase to maintain harmony.

这句“算了”，既是对他人的宽容，也是对自己的救赎。

This 'forget it' is both tolerance towards others and salvation for oneself.

Philosophical analysis of the dual nature of forgiveness.

在浩瀚的宇宙面前，人类的烦恼微不足道，很多事想想也就罢了、算了。

In the face of the vast universe, human worries are insignificant; thinking about it, many things are just meant to be let go.

Used to express existential detachment and cosmic perspective.

中国文化中的“算了”，往往蕴含着一种退一步海阔天空的道家哲学意味。

The 'forget it' in Chinese culture often contains a Daoist philosophical flavor of taking a step back to find boundless space.

Academic analysis connecting the phrase to traditional Daoist philosophy.

他那句轻描淡写的“算了”，实则是历经沧桑后对世事无常的深刻洞察与妥协。

His understated 'forget it' is actually a profound insight into and compromise with the impermanence of the world after experiencing the vicissitudes of life.

Literary description of the phrase as an expression of profound life experience.

在人际交往的微妙博弈中，“算了”常常被用作一种以退为进的防御性话语策略。

In the subtle game of interpersonal interaction, 'forget it' is often used as a defensive discourse strategy of retreating to advance.

Sociolinguistic analysis of the phrase as a strategic conversational tool.

当“算了”成为一代人面对阶层固化时的集体口头禅，它便折射出一种时代性的精神疲惫。

When 'forget it' becomes the collective catchphrase of a generation facing social stratification, it reflects an era-specific spiritual exhaustion.

Sociological critique of the phrase's prevalence in modern society.

从词源学角度观之，“算”之终结即为“了”，此词生动诠释了从计较到放下的心理演变过程。

Viewed from an etymological perspective, the end of 'calculation' is 'completion'; this word vividly interprets the psychological evolution from haggling to letting go.

Etymological and psychological breakdown of the characters.

真正的豁达并非强颜欢笑，而是能在认清生活真相后，发自肺腑地说出一句“算了”。

True open-mindedness is not forcing a smile, but being able to say a heartfelt 'forget it' after recognizing the truth of life.

Philosophical definition of true acceptance using the phrase.

他深知，此时的一句“算了”，胜过千言万语的辩驳，是维系宗族颜面的最后一块遮羞布。

He knew deeply that a 'forget it' at this moment was better than a thousand words of argument, serving as the last fig leaf to maintain the clan's face.

Analyzing the phrase's role in maintaining traditional family honor and face.

文学作品中，人物临终前的一句“算了”，往往标志着所有恩怨情仇的彻底消解与归零。

In literature, a character's 'forget it' before death often marks the complete dissolution and resetting to zero of all love and hate, gratitude and grudges.

Literary analysis of the phrase as the ultimate narrative resolution.

Collocations courantes

那就算了

就算了吧

算了算了

只好算了

干脆算了

还是算了

就算了呗

就这么算了

大不了算了

想来想去算了

Phrases Courantes

算了，不说了。

算了，随你吧。

算了，我请客。

算了，原谅他吧。

算了，习惯就好。

算了，别管他。

算了，重来吧。

算了，当没发生过。

算了，看在你的面子上。

算了，天涯何处无芳草。

Souvent confondu avec

算了 vs 没关系 (méi guān xi)

'没关系' means 'it doesn't matter' and is the polite response to 'sorry'. '算了' means 'forget it' and can imply you are still slightly annoyed but choosing not to fight.

算了 vs 无所谓 (wú suǒ wèi)

'无所谓' means 'I don't care' (neutral preference). '算了' means giving up on a specific plan or argument.

算了 vs 放弃 (fàng qì)

'放弃' is the formal verb 'to give up'. You use it in writing or serious speech. '算了' is the spoken interjection.

Expressions idiomatiques

"不了了之"

To settle a matter by leaving it unsettled; to end up with nothing definite. It describes a situation where a problem is just forgotten about without a real solution.

那件案子最后不了了之了。

Formal/Written

"听之任之"

To let things take their own course; to let it be. It implies a passive attitude of not interfering.

对于他的错误，我们不能听之任之。

Formal

"顺其自然"

To let nature take its course. A positive, Daoist-inspired way of saying 'let it be' without forcing an outcome.

结果如何，就顺其自然吧。

Neutral

"既往不咎"

To let bygones be bygones; to not punish past misdeeds. A formal way of officially letting something go.

只要你改过自新，我们可以既往不咎。

Formal

"息事宁人"

To make concessions to avoid trouble; to patch up a quarrel. Often involves compromising just to make the problem go away.

为了息事宁人，他只好赔了钱。

Formal

"得过且过"

To muddle along; to live day by day without ambition. A negative idiom describing someone who gives up too easily on life.

年轻人不能有得过且过的思想。

Written/Formal

"破罐子破摔"

To smash a cracked pot; to write oneself off as hopeless and act recklessly. The extreme, negative consequence of giving up completely.

遇到挫折不能破罐子破摔。

Colloquial

"退一步海阔天空"

Take a step back and you will find the sea and sky boundless. A famous proverb advising that yielding in an argument leads to peace.

忍一时风平浪静，退一步海阔天空。

Proverb

"一笑置之"

To dismiss with a laugh; to not take seriously. A graceful way of letting an insult or a minor issue go.

面对那些流言蜚语，他只是一笑置之。

Literary

"善罢甘休"

To be willing to let things go. Usually used in the negative (不肯善罢甘休) to describe someone who refuses to give up a fight.

他不拿到钱是不会善罢甘休的。

Formal

Facile à confondre

算了 vs 没关系

Both can be translated as 'never mind' in English.

'没关系' is polite and reassuring. It means no harm was done. '算了' means you are dropping the issue, but it doesn't necessarily mean you are happy about it.

对不起！——没关系。(Correct) / 对不起！——算了。(A bit rude, implies 'I'm annoyed but whatever').

算了 vs 无所谓

Both indicate a lack of further action.

'无所谓' is used before a decision is made to show you have no preference. '算了' is used after a plan fails or an argument happens to abandon it.

吃什么？——无所谓。(I don't care what we eat.) / 没座位了。——算了，不吃了。(No seats. Forget it, let's not eat.)

算了 vs 随便

Both can mean 'whatever'.

'随便' means 'do as you please' or 'any option is fine'. '算了' means 'stop doing this' or 'cancel the plan'.

你想去哪？——随便。(Anywhere is fine.) / 我不想去了。——算了。(Forget it then.)

算了 vs 罢了

They share the meaning of minimizing an issue.

'罢了' is a formal, literary particle placed at the end of a sentence meaning 'that is all'. '算了' is a spoken interjection.

只是个玩笑罢了。(It's just a joke, that's all.)

算了 vs 算账

They share the character '算'.

'算账' means to literally calculate a bill, or metaphorically to seek revenge. '算了' means to let it go. They are opposites in conflict resolution.

我要找他算账！(I'm going to settle the score with him!)

Structures de phrases

[Reason] + 算了。

太贵了，算了。

如果 + [Condition]，那就算了。

如果你没空，那就算了。

既然 + [Condition]，就算了吧。

既然下雨，就算了吧。

本来想 + [Action]，还是算了。

本来想去买，还是算了。

算了，别 + [Action] + 了。

算了，别吵了。

[Minor issue] 也就算了，可是 [Major issue]。

你迟到也就算了，可是你还撒谎。

与其 + [Negative action]，不如干脆算了。

与其在这里浪费时间，不如干脆算了。

事已至此，多说无益，就算了吧。

Famille de mots

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely High. It is one of the top 100 most spoken phrases in daily Mandarin.

Erreurs courantes

Using it to say 'You're welcome'. → 不客气 (bù kè qi)
Learners often confuse 'forget it' (as in 'forget about thanking me') with the Chinese phrase. Saying '算了' in response to 'Thank you' sounds like you are annoyed by their gratitude. Always use '不客气'.
Using it to accept a sincere apology. → 没关系 (méi guān xi)
If someone accidentally breaks your phone and apologizes profusely, saying '算了' implies 'I'm furious but I'm not going to hit you'. It does not relieve their guilt. Use '没关系' to truly forgive them.
Saying '我算了去' instead of '我不去了，算了'. → 我不去了，算了。
You cannot use '算了' as an auxiliary verb meaning 'decided not to'. It must be used as an interjection. State your negative action first, then add the phrase.
Using it with a superior to decline a task. → 老板，这个任务我可能做不了。
Saying '算了' to a boss when a task is hard is highly insubordinate. It means 'I give up, I'm not doing it'. You must use formal, respectful language to explain your difficulties.
Confusing it with '无所谓' for preferences. → 吃什么？——无所谓。
If someone asks what you want to eat, saying '算了' means 'Forget it, let's not eat at all'. If you mean 'I don't care what we eat', you must use '无所谓'.

Astuces

Nail the Fourth Tone

The power of the phrase comes from the sharp, falling fourth tone on '算'. If you use a rising tone, it sounds like a question. Practice making it sound decisive.

End of the Clause

Always place the phrase at the beginning or the end of your thought. Never stick it in the middle of a subject-verb-object structure. '我不去了，算了' is correct.

The Pacifier

When your friends are arguing over something silly, step in and say '算了算了'. It shows you are the mature peacemaker in the group.

The Ultimate Bargaining Tool

If a vendor won't lower the price, say '那就算了' and slowly walk away. 90% of the time, they will call you back with a better price.

Avoid with Bosses

Never use this phrase to dismiss a task given by a teacher, boss, or elder. It will make you look lazy and disrespectful.

Listen to the Sigh

The meaning changes entirely based on the speaker's breath. A quick snap means anger. A long sigh means sad acceptance. Listen closely.

Texting Shortcut

In WeChat, if a conversation is dragging on and you want to end it, just typing '算了' is a perfectly acceptable way to sign off.

Not an Apology Acceptor

Remember, do not use it to say 'it's okay' when someone apologizes sincerely. Use '没关系' instead to avoid sounding passive-aggressive.

Pair with '既然'

Level up your Chinese by pairing it with '既然' (since). '既然不行就算了' (Since it won't work, forget it) sounds incredibly native.

Embrace the Dao

Think of the phrase not just as 'giving up', but as the Daoist concept of 'flowing like water'. Sometimes, letting go is the smartest move.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a beautiful SWAN (suàn) trying to do math. It gets frustrated, pushes the calculator away, and says 'LUH' (le) - forget it, I'm a swan!

Association visuelle

Visualize an abacus (the traditional Chinese calculator). Imagine pushing all the beads away to clear the board. The calculation is cleared, the board is empty, the matter is dropped.

Word Web

算 (Calculate) 了 (Finished) 放弃 (Give up) 没关系 (It's okay) 结束 (End) 和平 (Peace) 妥协 (Compromise) 随他去 (Let it be)

Défi

Next time you are studying Chinese and feel completely overwhelmed by a difficult grammar point, instead of getting angry, close the book gently, say the phrase out loud to yourself, and take a five-minute break. You have just practiced the word in its most natural context!

Origine du mot

The phrase originates from the literal combination of '算' (to calculate, to reckon) and '了' (the particle indicating completion). In ancient times, commerce and daily life relied heavily on the abacus for calculations. When a transaction or a reckoning was finished, the calculation was 'done' (算了). Over centuries, this literal end of a mathematical process evolved into a metaphorical end to any process, argument, or plan.

Sens originel : The calculation is finished; the account is settled.

Sino-Tibetan -> Sinitic -> Mandarin

Contexte culturel

Be careful not to use it when someone is offering a sincere, serious apology for a major mistake. Saying it in that context can imply that you do not accept the apology and are just dismissing the person entirely.

In English, 'forget it' can sometimes sound aggressive or dismissive. While the Chinese phrase can be used aggressively, it is much more frequently used as a gentle, polite, and socially acceptable way to maintain peace, more akin to 'let's just let it be'.

The phrase is the title of numerous popular Chinese pop songs, often dealing with themes of heartbreak and moving on. Frequently used in classic Chinese literature, such as 'Dream of the Red Chamber', to indicate a character's resignation to fate. A common catchphrase for comedic relief in Chinese sketch comedy (小品) when a character gives up on a ridiculous scheme.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Shopping and Bargaining

太贵了，算了。
不便宜就算了。
没有就算了。
那就算了吧。

Changing Plans

下雨了，算了。
太晚了，算了。
如果你累就算了。
本来想去，还是算了。

Ending an Argument

算了，别吵了。
算了，我不跟你计较。
算了算了，都是我的错。
算了，随你吧。

Comforting Someone

算了，别哭了。
丢了就算了，再买一个。
算了，过去的事就让它过去吧。
没考好就算了。

Giving Up on a Task

太难了，算了。
修不好就算了。
找不到就算了。
干脆算了。

Amorces de conversation

"A: 我们今天去吃火锅吗？ B: 外面下大雨了，算了吧，我们在家吃。 (Are we going to eat hotpot today? B: It's raining heavily outside, let's forget it, let's eat at home.)"

"A: 这件衣服打折后还要一千块。 B: 那么贵？算了，不买了。 (This dress is still 1000 yuan after the discount. B: That expensive? Forget it, not buying it.)"

"A: 对不起，我把你的杯子打破了。 B: 算了，一个杯子而已，没关系。 (Sorry, I broke your cup. B: Forget it, it's just a cup, it doesn't matter.)"

"A: 他怎么还不来？ B: 等了半个小时了，算了，我们先走吧。 (Why isn't he here yet? B: We've waited half an hour, forget it, let's go first.)"

"A: 我还是觉得我的方案更好。 B: 算了，我不跟你争了，听老板的吧。 (I still think my plan is better. B: Forget it, I won't argue with you, let's listen to the boss.)"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time recently when you wanted to do something, but eventually said '算了' to yourself. What made you change your mind?

Write a short dialogue between two friends where one is very angry and the other uses '算了' to calm them down.

Do you think saying '算了' is a sign of weakness (giving up) or a sign of strength (letting go)? Explain your reasoning.

Write about a situation where you used '算了' but actually still felt angry inside. Why didn't you express your true feelings?

Imagine you are bargaining at a market in Beijing. Write the conversation that ends with you saying '那就算了' and walking away.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, it can be considered rude or insubordinate. Because the phrase implies giving up or dismissing a topic, saying it to a superior sounds like you are refusing to do your job or disrespecting their authority. Instead, use formal language to explain difficulties, such as '这个项目目前有困难' (This project currently has difficulties).

No, never use it to respond to 'Thank you' (谢谢). It would sound like you are saying 'forget about thanking me, I don't care'. The correct response to 'Thank you' is '不客气' (You're welcome) or '没事' (It's nothing).

Adding '吧' (ba) softens the tone significantly. '算了' can sound abrupt, decisive, or even angry. '算了吧' sounds like a gentle suggestion or a sigh of resignation. If you want to be polite and avoid sounding aggressive, it is safer to use '算了吧'.

Yes, it is often used in breakups to signify the ultimate giving up on the relationship. A partner might say '我们还是算了吧' (We had better just forget it/end it). It carries a heavy emotional weight of exhaustion and finality in this context.

It is written as 'suàn le'. The first character has a fourth (falling) tone, and the second character has a neutral (toneless) tone. Make sure to pronounce the 'suan' sharply and keep the 'le' very short and light.

Yes, it is universally understood and used in all Mandarin-speaking regions, including Mainland China, Taiwan, and Singapore. In Hong Kong, where Cantonese is spoken, the equivalent phrase is '算啦' (syun laa).

While it originates from a verb (算 - to calculate), the phrase '算了' functions entirely as an interjection or a pragmatic marker in modern Chinese. You cannot say '我算了它' (I forgot it). You must use it as a standalone phrase or at the end of a clause.

Repeating the phrase is a common way to pacify someone or de-escalate a situation. It acts as a verbal pat on the back. It means 'there, there, let it go, don't be angry anymore'. It is much softer and friendlier than saying it just once.

Yes, if someone is trying to explain something complex to you in Chinese and you are completely lost, you can smile apologetically and say '太难了，算了' (Too difficult, never mind). It politely tells them they can stop trying to explain.

'Forget it' and 'never mind' are the closest literal translations, but 'let it go' or 'let it be' often capture the philosophical and emotional nuance better, especially when it is used to maintain social harmony and avoid unnecessary conflict.