这次就算了。
Zheci jiusuan le.
I'll let it go this time.
Literally: This time even/just be it.
In 15 Seconds
- A phrase used to forgive minor mistakes or drop an argument.
- Shows you are moving on and won't hold a grudge.
- Best for small social errors or minor inconveniences.
Meaning
This phrase is used when you decide to forgive a mistake or drop a grievance for the time being. It is like saying 'I'll let you off the hook this once' or 'Let's just forget about it for now.'
Key Examples
3 of 6A friend arrives late for a movie
没事，这次就算了，我们快进去吧。
It's okay, I'll let it go this time, let's go in quickly.
A waiter brings the wrong side dish
这次就算了，我不换了。
I'll let it go this time; I won't change it.
A colleague forgets to CC you on an email
这次就算了，下次记得发给我。
I'll let it go this time, just remember to send it to me next time.
Cultural Background
High value on harmony. This phrase is a social lubricant. Similar usage, often with a slightly softer tone. Often used in Cantonese as '算數啦' (Suan shu la).
Use a smile
Always smile when saying this to ensure it doesn't sound angry.
In 15 Seconds
- A phrase used to forgive minor mistakes or drop an argument.
- Shows you are moving on and won't hold a grudge.
- Best for small social errors or minor inconveniences.
What It Means
这次就算了 (zhè cì jiù suàn le) is your ultimate 'get out of jail free' card. It literally means 'this time, let's just count it as finished.' You use it when someone messes up, but you choose not to make a big deal out of it. It’s a mix of mercy, pragmatism, and a little bit of 'don't let it happen again.'
How To Use It
Drop this phrase at the end of a conversation where someone is apologizing. It acts as a full stop to the conflict. You can say it softly to show kindness. You can also say it with a sigh to show you are slightly annoyed but moving on. It’s very flexible! Just remember that 算了 (suàn le) on its own means 'forget it.' Adding 这次 (zhè cì) makes it specific to this one occasion.
When To Use It
Use it when a friend is five minutes late to coffee. Use it when a waiter brings the wrong drink but you’re too thirsty to wait. It’s perfect for small social frictions. In a meeting, if a colleague forgets a minor file, this phrase keeps the peace. It shows you are a 'big person' who doesn't sweat the small stuff.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this for major betrayals or serious crimes. It sounds way too casual if someone crashes your car! Also, avoid using it with your boss if they are correcting your work. In that case, it might sound like you are forgiving them for giving you feedback, which is quite awkward. You don't want to accidentally 'forgive' your CEO.
Cultural Background
This phrase reflects the Chinese concept of 'giving face' (留面子). By saying this, you allow the other person to keep their dignity. You acknowledge the mistake but choose to preserve the relationship. It’s deeply rooted in the idea of harmony. It’s a way to be firm about the error without being aggressive.
Common Variations
If you want to be even more casual, just say 算了算了 (suàn le suàn le). If you want to sound a bit more serious or like a parent, you can say 下不为例 (xià bù wéi lì), which means 'don't let it happen next time.' But for 90% of daily life, 这次就算了 is your best friend.
Usage Notes
This is a neutral-to-informal expression. It is perfect for peer-to-peer interactions but should be used cautiously with superiors to avoid sounding like you are 'granting' them a favor.
Use a smile
Always smile when saying this to ensure it doesn't sound angry.
Examples
6没事，这次就算了，我们快进去吧。
It's okay, I'll let it go this time, let's go in quickly.
Used to dismiss an apology and move on to the activity.
这次就算了，我不换了。
I'll let it go this time; I won't change it.
Shows the speaker is being easy-going at a restaurant.
这次就算了，下次记得发给我。
I'll let it go this time, just remember to send it to me next time.
Professional but firm about future expectations.
哎呀，这次就算了，别再碰我的东西。
Ugh, forget it this time, but don't touch my things again.
A bit annoyed but ultimately forgiving.
这次就算了，下次请我喝茶！
I'll let it go this time, you owe me a tea next time!
Uses the phrase to jokingly 'extort' a small treat.
我知道你不是故意的，这次就算了。
I know you didn't do it on purpose, so I'll let it go this time.
Softens the tone to rebuild emotional connection.
Test Yourself
Which phrase is correct?
Someone says sorry for being late. You say:
This is the standard expression.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesSomeone says sorry for being late. You say:
This is the standard expression.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, if it is a very minor mistake and you want to show you are easygoing.
Related Phrases
算了
synonymForget it.
没关系
similarIt doesn't matter.
