无可讳言
wu ke hui yan
There is no denying
Literally: {"\u65e0\u53ef":"nothing","\u8bb3":"to conceal; to hide; to euphemize","\u8a00":"to say; to speak"}
In 15 Seconds
- State undeniable truths.
- Use for serious, acknowledged issues.
- Avoid in casual chats.
- Adds weight and directness.
Meaning
This phrase is your go-to when you need to state a fact that's pretty obvious, maybe even a little uncomfortable. It's like saying, 'Let's just be honest here, because pretending otherwise is pointless.' You use it to acknowledge something everyone knows but might be hesitant to voice, adding a touch of directness to your communication.
Key Examples
3 of 12Professional email to colleagues
关于项目进展,无可讳言,我们遇到了一些瓶颈。
Regarding project progress, there is no denying, we have encountered some bottlenecks.
Giving a presentation
无可讳言,当前的市场竞争非常激烈。
There is no denying, the current market competition is very fierce.
Discussing a sensitive topic with a friend
我知道这很难接受,但无可讳言,你的做法确实有些欠妥。
I know this is hard to accept, but there is no denying, your actions were indeed somewhat inappropriate.
Cultural Background
The phrase `无可讳言` likely emerged from classical Chinese literature and formal discourse. It reflects a cultural value placed on forthrightness and acknowledging reality, even when unpleasant. In a society that sometimes values indirectness (面子 - mianzi), using this phrase signals a deliberate choice to be direct and face facts head-on, often in serious or official contexts. It emphasizes intellectual honesty and the courage to speak difficult truths.
Mastering the Nuance
Think of `无可讳言` as a formal way to say 'let's face it.' It’s best used when the truth you're stating is significant and potentially uncomfortable, but widely acknowledged or observable.
The 'Too Formal' Trap
Using `无可讳言` for everyday, simple truths (like 'the sky is blue' or 'I'm hungry') is a common beginner mistake. It sounds overly dramatic and out of place, like wearing a tuxedo to a backyard BBQ.
In 15 Seconds
- State undeniable truths.
- Use for serious, acknowledged issues.
- Avoid in casual chats.
- Adds weight and directness.
What It Means
This phrase is your honest truth-teller. It means there's nothing to hide or avoid saying. You're about to state a fact. This fact is likely known by others. It might be a bit sensitive. You're choosing directness over polite evasion. It adds weight to your statement. It signals you're not beating around the bush. Think of it as a social lubricant for difficult truths. It's like saying, 'Let's call a spade a spade.'
How To Use It
Use 无可讳言 before stating an obvious, perhaps slightly awkward, truth. It sets the stage for honesty. It signals your intention to be direct. For example, '无可讳言,这次项目确实遇到了不少困难。' (There's no denying, this project has indeed encountered many difficulties.) It works well in both spoken and written contexts. You can use it to preface a critique. Or perhaps a confession. It can also introduce a widely acknowledged reality. It's a strong opener for serious topics. It helps manage expectations upfront.
Formality & Register
This phrase leans towards formal or neutral. It's not typically used in super casual chats. You won't hear it much in quick texts with friends. Think professional emails or formal speeches. It can be used in slightly less formal settings. But it always carries a serious tone. It's definitely not slang. Using it too casually might sound a bit stiff. It’s like wearing a suit to a picnic. It’s appropriate for serious discussions. It fits well in academic or business contexts. It signals respect for the topic. It also shows respect for your audience.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine a manager addressing their team. '无可讳言,我们的销售额有所下降。' (There is no denying, our sales have declined.) A student writing an essay might say, '无可讳言,考试的难度超出了预期。' (There is no denying, the exam's difficulty exceeded expectations.) A vlogger discussing a controversial topic might start with, '无可讳言,这个决定引起了广泛争议。' (There is no denying, this decision has caused widespread controversy.) Even in a slightly more relaxed setting, like a book club discussing a character's flaws: '无可讳言,这个角色确实有许多缺点。' (There is no denying, this character indeed has many flaws.) It’s versatile but always serious.
When To Use It
Use 无可讳言 when you need to be upfront. Especially about something others might shy away from. It's perfect for acknowledging challenges. Or admitting to a known problem. Use it when you want to lend gravity to your words. It's great for setting a serious tone. Think of presentations or official reports. It’s useful when you need to be persuasive. By acknowledging a difficult truth first. It builds credibility. It shows you're not afraid of reality.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid 无可讳言 in lighthearted conversations. Don't use it for everyday, minor issues. It’s overkill for saying 'I forgot my keys.' It sounds too dramatic for casual texts. Using it with close friends about trivial matters is odd. It can make you seem overly serious. Or even a bit pompous. It’s not for jokes or light banter. It doesn't fit when you're just sharing gossip. Stick to more relaxed phrases for those. Save it for when the topic truly warrants it. Don't use it to state something completely new. It implies the information is already suspected.
Common Mistakes
A common error is using it for trivial matters. This makes the speaker sound overly dramatic. Another mistake is using it in very informal settings. It clashes with the casual vibe. Forgetting the nuance is also an issue. It’s not just saying 'obviously.' It’s about acknowledging something difficult. Or something people might prefer not to discuss. It's about facing facts, not stating the obvious like 'the sky is blue.'
Common Variations
In more casual settings, people might say '说实话' (shuō shíhuà - to tell the truth). Or '老实说' (lǎoshí shuō - honestly speaking). Sometimes, a very direct '事实就是如此' (shìshí jiùshì rúcǐ - the fact is just so) is used. These are less formal. 无可讳言 has a more literary feel. It's often found in written texts. Regional differences are subtle. But the core meaning remains consistent. It's about facing an undeniable reality.
Real Conversations
Speaker A: 'I heard the project deadline might be extended.'
Speaker B: '无可讳言,我们确实面临一些技术难题,延期是有可能的。' (There is no denying, we are indeed facing some technical difficulties, an extension is possible.)
Speaker A: 'Are you really going to quit your job?'
Speaker B: '无可讳言,我对目前的工作内容感到非常不满意。' (There is no denying, I am very dissatisfied with my current job content.)
Quick FAQ
Is it always serious? Mostly yes. Can it be used humorously? Rarely, and only if the humor is very dry. Is it common in spoken language? Less so than in writing. It's more academic or formal. It sounds a bit like a news anchor. Or a textbook. But people do use it. Especially in professional settings. It adds a certain gravitas. It signals you're getting to the heart of the matter.
Usage Notes
This is a formal phrase, best suited for written communication, presentations, or serious discussions. Avoid using it in casual chats or texts, as it can sound overly stiff or dramatic. It's used to introduce an undeniable fact, often one that might be sensitive or difficult for the audience to hear.
Mastering the Nuance
Think of `无可讳言` as a formal way to say 'let's face it.' It’s best used when the truth you're stating is significant and potentially uncomfortable, but widely acknowledged or observable.
The 'Too Formal' Trap
Using `无可讳言` for everyday, simple truths (like 'the sky is blue' or 'I'm hungry') is a common beginner mistake. It sounds overly dramatic and out of place, like wearing a tuxedo to a backyard BBQ.
Facing Reality Head-On
In Chinese culture, while indirectness is sometimes valued, there's also deep respect for honesty and facing difficult truths. `无可讳言` embodies this value, signaling courage and intellectual integrity.
Build Credibility
Start a difficult conversation or present bad news with `无可讳言`. This shows you're not hiding anything and are willing to address the reality directly, which can build trust with your audience.
Examples
12关于项目进展,无可讳言,我们遇到了一些瓶颈。
Regarding project progress, there is no denying, we have encountered some bottlenecks.
Used to formally introduce a difficult but acknowledged problem in a work context.
无可讳言,当前的市场竞争非常激烈。
There is no denying, the current market competition is very fierce.
Sets a serious and realistic tone at the beginning of a presentation about market conditions.
我知道这很难接受,但无可讳言,你的做法确实有些欠妥。
I know this is hard to accept, but there is no denying, your actions were indeed somewhat inappropriate.
Used to preface criticism or feedback that the speaker knows might be difficult for the listener.
我们都清楚,这次考试真的很难,无可讳言。
We all know, this exam was really hard, there's no denying it.
Slightly more casual, but still emphasizes the shared, difficult reality of the exam.
生活不易,无可讳言,但我会继续前进。
Life isn't easy, there's no denying it, but I will keep moving forward.
Used to acknowledge a difficult reality before stating a resolution or positive outlook.
无可讳言,这项政策的负面影响是显而易见的。
There is no denying, the negative impacts of this policy are obvious.
A common way to express a strong, factual opinion in online discussions.
无可讳言,该候选人在沟通技巧方面有待提高。
There is no denying, this candidate needs improvement in communication skills.
Formal and direct feedback, acknowledging a clear weakness.
✗ 昨天我迟到了,无可讳言。
✗ I was late yesterday, there is no denying it.
This phrase is too formal for a simple, everyday statement like being late.
✗ 天气很热,无可讳言。
✗ The weather is hot, there is no denying it.
Using `无可讳言` for obvious facts like weather is incorrect; it's for more complex or sensitive truths.
这部电影的情节,无可讳言,有点老套了。
The plot of this movie, there's no denying, is a bit cliché.
Used with a touch of dry humor to point out a predictable plot element.
无可讳言,我当时的选择确实是错误的。
There is no denying, my choice at that time was indeed wrong.
Used to acknowledge a past mistake with sincerity and finality.
无可讳言,这次事件对后世产生了深远影响。
There is no denying, this event had a profound impact on later generations.
Emphasizes the undeniable historical significance of an event.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the most appropriate phrase.
The sentence acknowledges a known fact (lack of preparation) leading to failure, fitting the meaning of 'there is no denying'.
Choose the sentence that uses `无可讳言` correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Option B correctly uses `无可讳言` to introduce an undeniable fact (the plan's risks). Options A, C, and D misuse the phrase in contexts where it doesn't fit.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
`无可讳言` is too formal and serious for a simple statement of liking a pet. A more casual tone is needed.
Translate this sentence into Chinese.
This translation captures the formal and direct tone of the English phrase.
Fill in the blank with the most appropriate phrase.
The sentence discusses a serious mistake that needs reflection, fitting the meaning of acknowledging an undeniable truth.
Choose the sentence that uses `无可讳言` correctly.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Option B uses `无可讳言` appropriately to state a serious and undeniable fact about the project timeline. Options A, C, and D use it in contexts that are either too informal, too adverbial, or too trivial.
Find and fix the error in the sentence.
Stating someone's clothing color is a trivial observation, making `无可讳言` inappropriate due to its formal and serious tone.
Translate this sentence into English.
This translation accurately conveys the meaning of acknowledging someone's strong abilities.
🎉 Score: /8
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum for '无可讳言'
Not used in casual chats or texts with friends.
✗ 昨天我迟到了,无可讳言。
Generally too formal for everyday conversation.
✗ 无可讳言,我好饿。
Can be used in slightly more relaxed, but still serious, discussions.
无可讳言,这次项目确实遇到了不少困难。
Appropriate for professional settings, reports, and serious speeches.
无可讳言,当前的市场竞争非常激烈。
Common in written academic texts or official pronouncements.
无可讳言,该政策对经济产生了深远影响。
Situations Where '无可讳言' Fits
Business Meeting
无可讳言,我们面临严峻的财务挑战。
Academic Lecture
无可讳言,气候变化是人类面临的重大问题。
Formal Presentation
无可讳言,此次改革的阻力不小。
News Commentary
无可讳言,这项决定引起了广泛争议。
Personal Confession
无可讳言,我当时确实犯了错误。
Legal Statement
无可讳言,被告有罪。
Comparing '无可讳言' with Similar Phrases
Usage Categories for '无可讳言'
Formal Written Contexts
- • Reports
- • Essays
- • Official Documents
Serious Spoken Contexts
- • Speeches
- • Presentations
- • Debates
Acknowledging Difficulties
- • Challenges
- • Problems
- • Mistakes
Stating Undeniable Facts
- • Market Realities
- • Historical Events
- • Scientific Truths
Practice Bank
8 exercises关于这次失败,___,我们准备不足。
The sentence acknowledges a known fact (lack of preparation) leading to failure, fitting the meaning of 'there is no denying'.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Option B correctly uses `无可讳言` to introduce an undeniable fact (the plan's risks). Options A, C, and D misuse the phrase in contexts where it doesn't fit.
Find and fix the mistake:
无可讳言,我很喜欢这只猫。
`无可讳言` is too formal and serious for a simple statement of liking a pet. A more casual tone is needed.
There is no denying that the situation is quite serious.
Hints: Think about how to introduce an undeniable fact., Consider formal vocabulary.
This translation captures the formal and direct tone of the English phrase.
___,这次的失误是我们团队需要深刻反思的。
The sentence discusses a serious mistake that needs reflection, fitting the meaning of acknowledging an undeniable truth.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Option B uses `无可讳言` appropriately to state a serious and undeniable fact about the project timeline. Options A, C, and D use it in contexts that are either too informal, too adverbial, or too trivial.
Find and fix the mistake:
无可讳言,他今天穿了件红色的 T 恤。
Stating someone's clothing color is a trivial observation, making `无可讳言` inappropriate due to its formal and serious tone.
无可讳言,他的能力很强。
Hints: Translate '无可' and '讳言' separately., Think about the overall meaning of acknowledging a fact.
This translation accurately conveys the meaning of acknowledging someone's strong abilities.
🎉 Score: /8
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
18 questionsLiterally, 无可 means 'nothing,' 讳 means 'to conceal or hide,' and 言 means 'to say.' So, it translates to 'nothing to conceal in saying' or 'nothing to hide when speaking.' This implies that what is about to be said is a truth that cannot and should not be hidden.
It's used in both, but it leans more towards formal written contexts like essays, reports, and official speeches. While you might hear it in spoken language, it's less common in casual conversation among friends. Using it in a text message would likely sound quite formal.
Yes, it can, but it's less common. Typically, it's used to introduce an undeniable fact that might be neutral or negative, often something people are reluctant to acknowledge. If used for something positive, it emphasizes the undeniable greatness or certainty of that positive fact, like '无可讳言,他的贡献是巨大的' (There is no denying his contributions are immense).
Obviously often refers to something easily seen or understood. 无可讳言 is more about stating a truth that is undeniable, often because it's significant, perhaps sensitive, or something people might prefer to ignore. It carries more weight and formality than simply saying 'obviously'.
Use 说实话 (to tell the truth) in more casual or personal contexts when you're sharing your genuine opinion or a personal feeling. 无可讳言 is much more formal and is used to state a widely acknowledged or significant fact, often in a professional or academic setting. Think of it as the difference between chatting with a friend and giving a formal presentation.
While not its primary function, it *could* be used sarcastically in very specific contexts, usually in writing where tone is harder to convey. However, this is advanced usage. For learners, it's best to stick to its direct meaning. Sarcastic use risks being misunderstood as overly serious or pompous.
Most commonly, 无可讳言 appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause, acting as an introductory phrase. For example: '无可讳言,我们需要更多资源。' (There is no denying, we need more resources.) It sets the tone before presenting the undeniable fact.
The core meaning of 无可讳言 is consistent across Mandarin-speaking regions. However, its frequency of use might vary. It's generally considered more literary and formal, so its spoken usage might be more prevalent in contexts where formality is expected, regardless of region.
A very common mistake is using 无可讳言 in casual settings like texting friends or talking about trivial matters. For instance, saying '无可讳言,我肚子饿了' (There is no denying, I'm hungry) sounds extremely out of place. It's like using legal jargon to order coffee.
Interestingly, 无可讳言 can sometimes be used to *address* situations where 'mianzi' might be at play. By using this phrase, the speaker acknowledges a potentially face-losing truth directly, signaling that they prioritize honesty over avoiding embarrassment. It's a way of confronting reality head-on.
Yes, that's a very close English equivalent. 'It is undeniable that...' captures the essence of 无可讳言 perfectly, emphasizing the certainty and unassailability of the statement that follows. Both phrases serve to introduce a fact that cannot reasonably be disputed.
Generally, no. 无可讳言 is best reserved for stating facts, realities, or truths that are generally observable or acknowledged, rather than purely subjective personal opinions. While a personal realization might be undeniable *to you*, the phrase implies a broader sense of undeniable truth.
An advanced nuance is its use in contexts where acknowledging a negative truth is strategically important. By stating it upfront with 无可讳言, the speaker preempts potential criticism and frames the issue in a controlled, honest manner, often building credibility before proposing a solution.
事实证明 implies that evidence has already established the truth. 无可讳言 is more about stating something that is inherently undeniable or should be acknowledged as such, often before evidence is presented or as a general principle. 无可讳言 sets the stage for acknowledging, while 事实证明 often concludes or supports an argument.
Only if that 'simple fact' is actually significant, potentially sensitive, or something people tend to overlook or avoid discussing. If it's truly just a simple, everyday fact like 'it's raining,' then 无可讳言 is inappropriate and sounds overly dramatic.
For casual situations, you'd use phrases like '说实话' (shuō shíhuà - honestly speaking), '老实说' (lǎoshí shuō - honestly), or simply state the fact directly without any preface. For example, instead of '无可讳言, I'm tired,' you'd just say '我累了' (wǒ lèi le - I'm tired).
Yes, it can be used to strongly agree with a point that is undeniable. For example, if someone states a difficult truth, you might respond, '是的,无可讳言,我们必须面对现实。' (Yes, there is no denying it, we must face reality.) It adds emphasis to your agreement.
The vibe is serious, direct, and honest. It conveys a sense of gravity and a commitment to facing facts. It suggests the speaker is mature, responsible, and not afraid to address difficult issues openly.
Related Phrases
毋庸置疑
synonymWithout a doubt; unquestionable
Both phrases assert the certainty of a statement, but `无可讳言` often implies acknowledging a known or potentially difficult truth, whereas `毋庸置疑` simply states something is beyond doubt.
不言而喻
synonymIt goes without saying; self-evident
This phrase suggests something is so obvious it doesn't need to be stated, while `无可讳言` is used when you *are* stating something undeniable, even if it's sensitive.
说实话
informal versionTo tell the truth; honestly
`说实话` is a much more casual and common way to preface an honest statement, suitable for everyday conversation, unlike the formal `无可讳言`.
显而易见
related topicObvious; evident
This phrase describes something that is easily seen or understood, similar to the undeniable nature of `无可讳言`, but lacks its formal tone and implication of potential reluctance to state the fact.
言不由衷
antonymTo speak insincerely; words not from the heart
`言不由衷` describes insincerity in speech, directly contrasting with `无可讳言`, which emphasizes speaking a truth that cannot be hidden.
实事求是
related topicTo seek truth from facts; be practical and realistic
This idiom emphasizes a principle of seeking truth, which aligns with the spirit of `无可讳言` in acknowledging factual realities without distortion.