切实可行
qie shi ke xing
Feasible; practical
Literally: Suitably (切) solid (实) and can (可) be done (行)
In 15 Seconds
- Means a plan is both realistic and able to be executed.
- Perfect for business meetings, project planning, or giving solid advice.
- Combines 'practical' and 'feasible' into one strong four-character expression.
Meaning
This phrase is used to describe a plan or idea that isn't just a dream, but is actually grounded in reality and can be executed successfully. It’s like saying something is 'doable' and 'down-to-earth' at the same time.
Key Examples
3 of 6Reviewing a work proposal
你的这个方案切实可行，我们下周就开始吧。
Your proposal is feasible; let's start next week.
Planning a weekend trip with a friend
去郊游是个切实可行的计划，不远也不贵。
Going on a trip to the suburbs is a practical plan; it's neither far nor expensive.
Giving advice to a younger sibling
定目标要切实可行，别总是异想天开。
Set realistic goals; don't always have your head in the clouds.
Cultural Background
The phrase embodies the Chinese philosophical emphasis on 'shishi qiushi' (seeking truth from facts). It became particularly prominent in political and economic discourse during China's reform era to emphasize practical results over ideology. Today, it's a staple in both business and daily life to signal reliability.
The 'Noun' Rule
This phrase loves nouns like `计划` (plan), `方案` (proposal), and `措施` (measure). Use them together for a natural sound.
Don't be too romantic
Avoid using this to describe people's personalities or artistic dreams. It's strictly for logistics and methods.
In 15 Seconds
- Means a plan is both realistic and able to be executed.
- Perfect for business meetings, project planning, or giving solid advice.
- Combines 'practical' and 'feasible' into one strong four-character expression.
What It Means
切实可行 is your go-to phrase for pragmatism. It combines two ideas: being realistic and being actionable. Think of it as the opposite of a 'pie in the sky' idea. When you use this, you're saying, 'Hey, this plan actually works in the real world.' It’s the difference between saying 'I’ll learn Chinese in a week' and 'I’ll learn five words a day.'
How To Use It
You usually place this after a noun like 计划 (plan), 方案 (proposal), or 办法 (method). You can say 这个建议切实可行 (This suggestion is feasible). It’s a great way to show you’ve thought things through. It sounds smart but isn't overly flowery. It’s the 'adult in the room' of Chinese adjectives.
When To Use It
Use it whenever you need to validate a strategy. It’s perfect for office meetings when a colleague suggests a smart budget cut. Use it with friends when planning a trip that actually fits everyone's schedule. It’s also great for self-reflection. Tell yourself your New Year's resolution needs to be 切实可行 so you don't quit by February!
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this for emotions or abstract art. You wouldn't call a romantic poem 切实可行. That would be a total vibe killer. Also, avoid it in very high-energy, slang-heavy environments. If your friend suggests a wild party, calling it 切实可行 makes you sound like a government auditor. Keep it for things that require logic and logistics.
Cultural Background
Chinese culture deeply values 'shishi' (being solid/real). There is a long history of praising leaders and thinkers who are practical rather than just talkative. This phrase reflects the 'can-do' spirit of modern China. It’s about getting results through steady, realistic steps. It's the linguistic equivalent of wearing comfortable walking shoes instead of flashy heels.
Common Variations
You might hear 行得通 (can walk through) in very casual chats. For something more formal, people use 可行性 (feasibility). But 切实可行 hits that sweet spot of being both descriptive and professional. It’s the goldilocks of 'feasibility' phrases—just right for most situations.
Usage Notes
The phrase is highly versatile, sitting comfortably between formal business reports and everyday logical discussions. It specifically modifies plans, suggestions, or methods.
The 'Noun' Rule
This phrase loves nouns like `计划` (plan), `方案` (proposal), and `措施` (measure). Use them together for a natural sound.
Don't be too romantic
Avoid using this to describe people's personalities or artistic dreams. It's strictly for logistics and methods.
The Power of 'Shi'
The character `实` (shí) means solid or real. In China, being 'shishi' is a huge compliment—it means you are dependable and not just full of hot air.
Examples
6你的这个方案切实可行，我们下周就开始吧。
Your proposal is feasible; let's start next week.
Shows professional approval of a strategy.
去郊游是个切实可行的计划，不远也不贵。
Going on a trip to the suburbs is a practical plan; it's neither far nor expensive.
Used here to justify why a social plan is a good idea.
定目标要切实可行，别总是异想天开。
Set realistic goals; don't always have your head in the clouds.
A bit of 'tough love' advice using the phrase to ground someone.
我的减肥计划唯一不切实可行的地方就是我太爱火锅了。
The only part of my weight loss plan that isn't feasible is that I love hotpot too much.
Using the phrase to poke fun at one's own lack of discipline.
别担心，我们会找到一个切实可行的办法来解决它。
Don't worry, we will find a practical way to solve it.
Provides comfort by promising a logical solution.
这个时间表切实可行吗？大家确认一下。
Is this timeline feasible? Everyone please confirm.
Short and direct for digital communication.
Test Yourself
Choose the best phrase to describe a plan that can actually be achieved.
我们需要一个___的计划来提高销量。
`切实可行` specifically describes a plan (计划) that is both realistic and doable.
Which word fits best in a professional feedback context?
经理认为你的建议非常___。
In a professional setting, calling a suggestion `切实可行` is high praise for its logic and utility.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Feasibility Formality Scale
Used with close friends
行得通 (Xíng de tōng)
Daily life and work
切实可行 (Qièshí kěxíng)
Official reports
具可行性 (Jù kěxíngxìng)
When to use 切实可行
Business Meeting
Approving a budget
Personal Goals
Planning a workout
Travel Planning
Checking flight times
Problem Solving
Fixing a broken pipe
Practice Bank
2 exercises我们需要一个___的计划来提高销量。
`切实可行` specifically describes a plan (计划) that is both realistic and doable.
经理认为你的建议非常___。
In a professional setting, calling a suggestion `切实可行` is high praise for its logic and utility.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsIt means a plan or idea is both realistic (切实) and can be carried out (可行). It's the opposite of an impossible dream.
Not at all! It's neutral. You can text a friend 这个主意切实可行 if you're deciding on a dinner spot.
No, it's for plans or methods. To describe a practical person, use 踏实 (tāshi) instead.
可行 just means 'possible,' while 切实可行 adds the layer that it's grounded in reality and well-thought-out.
Yes, just add 不 (bù) before it. For example: 这个计划不切实可行 (This plan isn't feasible).
Technically yes, it follows the four-character structure and is widely recognized as a fixed expression.
Using it for things that don't require a 'method.' You wouldn't say a movie is 切实可行.
It is used in government reports, but it's so common in business that it just sounds professional, not robotic.
Only if you are talking about the steps to achieve it. A dream itself isn't 切实可行, but a plan to reach it is.
People often just say 可行 (kěxíng) in fast conversation, but the full phrase sounds more convincing.
Related Phrases
行得通 (Xíng de tōng) - Will work; passable
脚踏实地 (Jiǎo tà shí dì) - Down-to-earth; feet on the ground
行之有效 (Xíng zhī yǒu xiào) - Effective in practice
异想天开 (Yì xiǎng tiān kāi) - Whimsical; unrealistic
