Meaning
To create difficulties or problems for oneself or others.
Cultural Background
In a workplace setting, using this phrase is a direct way to tell someone their behavior is unacceptable. Often used in a slightly more casual, friendly way among peers to warn about social faux pas. Used similarly to the mainland, often with a focus on 'not causing drama' in a fast-paced environment. Used as a general cultural warning to maintain a low profile and avoid unnecessary conflict.
Context is key
Always check if the trouble is intentional or accidental before choosing between {找|zhǎo} and {惹|rě}.
Don't over-use
It can sound like you are judging someone if you use it too often.
Meaning
To create difficulties or problems for oneself or others.
Context is key
Always check if the trouble is intentional or accidental before choosing between {找|zhǎo} and {惹|rě}.
Don't over-use
It can sound like you are judging someone if you use it too often.
Use with '给自己'
Adding '给自己' (for myself) makes the sentence sound much more natural.
Social harmony
Remember that in Chinese culture, avoiding trouble is often seen as a virtue.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct phrase.
你别总是去______，这样对你没好处。
The context implies a warning against negative behavior.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
Choose the best option:
The reflexive '给自己' must precede the verb phrase.
Match the phrase with its meaning.
Match: 惹麻烦
The phrase means to provoke or invite trouble.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 我想去跟那个坏人理论。 B: 别去，你这是在______。
The context is a warning against a dangerous action.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises你别总是去______，这样对你没好处。
The context implies a warning against negative behavior.
Choose the best option:
The reflexive '给自己' must precede the verb phrase.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
The phrase means to provoke or invite trouble.
A: 我想去跟那个坏人理论。 B: 别去，你这是在______。
The context is a warning against a dangerous action.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, it's very common for small daily inconveniences.
It can be, depending on your tone. Use it carefully with superiors.
{惹|rě} is accidental or reckless; {找|zhǎo} is intentional.
Yes, it's acceptable in narrative or argumentative essays.
No, it's an abstract concept.
你可以说：'给你惹麻烦了。'
Extremely common.
Yes, parents often say this to children.
Yes, it always implies something negative.
Yes, '他们惹麻烦了' works perfectly.
Yes, but be careful with the tone.
You can say '我不是故意惹麻烦的。'
Related Phrases
找麻烦
similarTo look for trouble
惹事生非
specialized formTo stir up trouble
自找麻烦
builds onTo bring trouble upon oneself
惹祸
similarTo cause a disaster
