合情合理...
heqingheli...
Reasonable...
Literally: 合 (Accord with) 情 (Emotion/Circumstance) 合 (Accord with) 理 (Reason/Logic)
In 15 Seconds
- Perfect balance of logic and human empathy.
- Used to describe fair decisions or reasonable requests.
- Essential for smooth negotiations and resolving conflicts.
Meaning
It describes something that makes sense both logically and emotionally. It is the perfect balance of being fair to people's feelings and following the rules.
Key Examples
3 of 6Negotiating a deadline with a boss
我的要求合情合理，老板最后同意了。
My request was reasonable and fair, so the boss finally agreed.
Splitting the bill with friends
大家AA制很合情合理。
Splitting the bill 'AA style' is perfectly fair.
A parent explaining a punishment
我不让你玩游戏是因为你没做完作业，这合情合理吧？
I'm not letting you play games because you didn't finish homework; that's fair, right?
Cultural Background
Used frequently in workplace and government to justify policies. Used similarly, often in media to discuss social justice. Common in business, often mixed with English in professional settings. Used in formal speeches and government communications.
Use it to win arguments
When you say your point is 'heqing heli', you are telling the other person that they are being unreasonable if they disagree.
In 15 Seconds
- Perfect balance of logic and human empathy.
- Used to describe fair decisions or reasonable requests.
- Essential for smooth negotiations and resolving conflicts.
What It Means
Think of 合情合理 as the 'Golden Ratio' of human interaction. In Chinese culture, logic alone isn't enough. You also need heart. This phrase means a decision is both logically sound and emotionally fair. It satisfies the brain and the gut. If a boss gives you a day off because your cat is sick, that is 合情合理.
How To Use It
You usually use it as an adjective. You can say a request is 合情合理. You can also use it to justify your own actions. It often appears after words like '非常' (very) or '完全' (completely). It is a great way to end an argument. It shows you are being the 'bigger person'.
When To Use It
Use it when negotiating a price at a market. Use it when asking for a deadline extension. It works great in office meetings. If a colleague suggests a fair compromise, call it 合情合理. It makes you sound sophisticated and balanced. It is the ultimate 'fair play' card in your deck.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for purely scientific facts. You wouldn't say 1+1=2 is 合情合理. That is just math. Also, avoid it in extreme emergencies. If a building is on fire, don't discuss if the exit route is 合情合理. Just run! It is for situations involving human judgment and social harmony.
Cultural Background
This phrase reflects the Chinese concept of '人情' (human sentiment) versus '法理' (law/logic). Historically, Chinese society values 'harmony' over rigid rules. To be '合理' (logical) but not '合情' (kind) is seen as cold. To be '合情' but not '合理' is seen as weak. This phrase is the bridge between the two.
Common Variations
You might hear people say 情理之中. This means 'within the bounds of reason'. It is very similar but more passive. 合情合理 is more of an active endorsement. It’s like giving a 'thumbs up' to a fair deal.
Usage Notes
The phrase is highly versatile and fits almost any register. Just remember that it specifically highlights the balance between rules and empathy.
Use it to win arguments
When you say your point is 'heqing heli', you are telling the other person that they are being unreasonable if they disagree.
Examples
6我的要求合情合理，老板最后同意了。
My request was reasonable and fair, so the boss finally agreed.
Shows the phrase used to justify a personal request in a professional setting.
大家AA制很合情合理。
Splitting the bill 'AA style' is perfectly fair.
Used in a casual social context to confirm a fair arrangement.
我不让你玩游戏是因为你没做完作业，这合情合理吧？
I'm not letting you play games because you didn't finish homework; that's fair, right?
Used to seek agreement on a logical consequence.
这个价格不合情合理，太贵了！
This price isn't reasonable; it's way too expensive!
Using the negative form to express dissatisfaction.
法院的判决合情合理。
The court's verdict is both just and humane.
High-level usage in a formal legal context.
虽然很难过，但公司的决定其实合情合理。
Although it's sad, the company's decision was actually fair.
Balancing emotion with a logical reality check.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
他的建议非常______，我们都同意了。
The context implies agreement with a fair suggestion.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises他的建议非常______，我们都同意了。
The context implies agreement with a fair suggestion.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, it requires human emotion.
Related Phrases
合乎情理
synonymSame as heqing heli.
