When something is 不合适 (bù hé shì), it means it's not suitable or appropriate for a particular situation or person. Think of it as 'not matching' or 'not fitting' in a broader sense. For instance, if a dress is too formal for a casual party, you could say it's 不合适. It's a useful phrase to express that something doesn't quite work in context.
When using 不合适 (bù hé shì), you're essentially saying something isn't a good fit or is improper for a given situation. Think of it like saying 'not suitable' or 'inappropriate'. It’s often used when an item, a plan, or even a comment doesn't align with expectations or requirements.
For example, if a dress is too formal for a casual party, you could say it's 不合适. Or, if someone's behavior is out of line for the context, their actions are 不合适. It implies a mismatch or a lack of propriety, and it's a very common and practical phrase in everyday Chinese.
不合适 in 30 Seconds
- Unsuitable
- Inappropriate
- Doesn't fit
§ What does 不合适 mean?
The Chinese word 不合适 (bù hé shì) is an adjective that directly translates to 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate'. It's a common and practical word you'll hear and use frequently in everyday conversations. Think of it as expressing that something just doesn't 'fit' or isn't 'right' in a particular situation.
- DEFINITION
- Unsuitable; inappropriate.
§ When do people use 不合适?
You'll use 不合适 in a variety of contexts, often to describe situations, clothing, behavior, or even timing. It's a versatile word that conveys a sense of mild disapproval or a mismatch.
Here are some common scenarios where you'd use 不合适:
- Describing clothing or attire: If an outfit isn't right for an occasion, it's 不合适. For example, wearing a swimsuit to a formal dinner.
- Referring to behavior: If someone's actions are out of line or impolite for the situation, their behavior is 不合适. Think of talking loudly in a library.
- Discussing timing: If it's not a good time to do something, the timing is 不合适. For instance, asking for a raise when your company is struggling financially.
- Evaluating suitability of things: This could be anything from a job opportunity that doesn't match your skills to a piece of furniture that doesn't fit your apartment.
- Expressing disagreement subtly: Sometimes, saying something is 不合适 can be a polite way to disagree or decline something without being too direct.
这件衣服太小了，穿起来有点不合适。
This dress is too small, it's a bit unsuitable to wear.
In this example, the clothing is 'unsuitable' because of its size. It doesn't fit properly, making it inappropriate to wear.
在公共场合大声喧哗是不合适的。
Making loud noise in public is inappropriate.
Here, the behavior (loud noise) is 'inappropriate' for a public setting, implying a social norm has been violated.
现在讨论这个问题有点不合适。
It's a bit inappropriate to discuss this issue now.
This example highlights 'inappropriate' timing. Perhaps there are more urgent matters or the current atmosphere isn't conducive to discussing the topic.
The key to understanding 不合适 is to grasp that it conveys a sense of mismatch or a lack of fittingness. It's a very common and practical expression in daily Chinese, used to gently point out when something is not quite right for a given situation, person, or purpose. Mastering its usage will make your Chinese sound much more natural and nuanced.
§ What Does 不合适 Mean?
- Definition
- Unsuitable; inappropriate.
You've probably heard or used 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate' a lot in English. In Chinese, a very common way to express this is with the adjective 不合适 (bù héshì). It's a straightforward word that applies to many situations, from clothing choices to social behavior. Let's break down where and how you'll encounter it in everyday Chinese.
§ Hearing 不合适 at Work
In a professional setting, 不合适 comes up often when discussing proposals, decisions, or even office conduct. It can be used to politely reject an idea or to point out something that doesn't fit the current situation or company policy.
这个计划现在提交不合适。
Translation hint: This plan now to submit is unsuitable.
你的穿着在公司会议上有点不合适。
Translation hint: Your attire at company meeting is a bit inappropriate.
§ Using 不合适 at School
In a school environment, 不合适 is commonly used by teachers, students, or administrators to talk about behavior, academic choices, or even classroom materials. It helps maintain order and ensures a conducive learning atmosphere.
上课时玩手机是不合适的。
Translation hint: During class playing phone is inappropriate.
这个图书馆太吵了，不合适学习。
Translation hint: This library is too noisy, unsuitable for studying.
Teachers might say: 这种行为在课堂上很不合适。(This kind of behavior in class is very inappropriate.)
Students might comment: 这本书对初学者来说有点不合适。(This book for beginners is a bit unsuitable.)
§ Encountering 不合适 in the News
News reports often use 不合适 to describe actions, policies, or statements that are deemed improper, out of line, or not fitting the current context. It's a key word for expressing disapproval or highlighting a mismatch.
他的言论在公众场合显得不合适。
Translation hint: His remarks in public场合 seemed inappropriate.
这条法律的某些条款对小企业来说是不合适的。
Translation hint: This law's certain clauses for small businesses are unsuitable.
§ General Usage Tip
Remember, 不合适 is quite flexible. You can use it when something:
- Doesn't fit (e.g., clothes, furniture).
- Is not suitable for a specific person or situation.
- Is socially or morally inappropriate.
- Is not the right timing for something.
Pay attention to the context, and you'll quickly get a feel for how to use 不合适 naturally. It's a fundamental word for expressing nuanced disapproval or mismatch in Chinese communication.
Alright, let's talk about 不合适 (bù hé shì). You already know it means 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate.' That's a great start. But knowing the basic definition isn't always enough to use a word correctly. There are a few common pitfalls learners fall into. Let's make sure you avoid them.
§ Mistake 1: Confusing 不合适 with 不对 (bù duì)
- DEFINITION
- 不对 (bù duì) means 'wrong' or 'incorrect.' It implies a factual error or moral wrongness. 不合适 (bù hé shì) is about suitability or appropriateness, not right or wrong.
This is a big one. Imagine someone asks, "Is this answer right?" You wouldn't say "不合适." You'd say "不对" if it's factually wrong. 不合适 is about whether something fits the situation, not if it adheres to rules or facts.
你的答案不对。(Nǐ de dá'àn bù duì.)
Your answer is wrong. (Factually incorrect.)
这件衣服现在穿不合适。(Zhè jiàn yīfu xiànzài chuān bù hé shì.)
This outfit is unsuitable to wear now. (Maybe it's too warm, or for a different occasion.)
§ Mistake 2: Overusing 不合适 for 'Don't like'
- DEFINITION
- While something you don't like might feel 'unsuitable' to you, 不合适 isn't the direct way to express dislike or personal preference. Use 不喜欢 (bù xǐ huān) or simply '不喜欢这个'.
You might see a jacket and think, "That's not really my style." While you could argue it's 'unsuitable' for *you*, it's more natural to say you don't like it. Using 不合适 here sounds a bit formal or like you're trying to find an objective reason when it's just a personal preference.
我不喜欢这条裤子。(Wǒ bù xǐhuān zhè tiáo kùzi.)
I don't like these pants. (Personal preference.)
Instead of:
这条裤子不合适。(Zhè tiáo kùzi bù hé shì.)
These pants are unsuitable. (Implies an objective reason for unsuitability, e.g., wrong size, wrong color for the event.)
§ Mistake 3: Forgetting Context is King
Like many adjectives, 不合适 really shines when the context is clear. Sometimes, people use it too vaguely, leaving the listener guessing *why* something is unsuitable.
Instead of just saying: 这个时间不合适。(Zhège shíjiān bù hé shì.) This time is unsuitable.
Which leaves you thinking, "Why? Too early? Too late?"
Be more specific:
这个时间开会不合适，因为很多人在吃饭。(Zhège shíjiān kāihuì bù hé shì, yīnwèi hěn duō rén zài chīfàn.)
This time is unsuitable for a meeting because many people are eating.
See the difference? Adding a reason or a clear scenario makes your Chinese much more natural and understandable. Don't be lazy with your context when using 不合适. Tell your listener *why* it's unsuitable.
§ Summary: How to use 不合适 well
To recap, use 不合适 when:
- Something objectively doesn't fit a situation, role, or purpose.
- You're talking about appropriateness, not factual correctness.
- You can, ideally, provide context or an implicit reason for its unsuitability.
Avoid it when you simply mean 'wrong' (用不对) or 'don't like' (用不喜欢). Keep these points in mind, and you'll be using 不合适 much more accurately and naturally. Good job!
§ 不合适 (bùhéshì) vs. 不适合 (bù shìhé)
Both 不合适 (bùhéshì) and 不适合 (bù shìhé) mean "unsuitable" or "inappropriate," and they are often interchangeable. However, there's a subtle difference in nuance that can help you choose the right one.
- DEFINITION
- 不合适 (bùhéshì): Often implies something is morally or socially inappropriate, or just doesn't fit well in a general sense. It can also refer to something being physically unsuitable (e.g., clothes).
这条裙子对她来说有点不合适。(Zhè tiáo qúnzi duì tā lái shuō yǒudiǎn bùhéshì.) - This dress is a little unsuitable (doesn't fit) for her.
在公共场合说这种话很不合适。(Zài gōnggòng chǎnghé shuō zhè zhǒng huà hěn bùhéshì.) - It's very inappropriate to say such things in public.
- DEFINITION
- 不适合 (bù shìhé): More specifically implies that something is not suitable for a particular person, situation, or purpose. It highlights a lack of compatibility or congruence.
这份工作可能不适合你。(Zhè fèn gōngzuò kěnéng bù shìhé nǐ.) - This job might not be suitable for you (personally).
这个计划不适合我们目前的情况。(Zhège jìhuà bù shìhé wǒmen mùqián de qíngkuàng.) - This plan is unsuitable for our current situation.
§ Other words to express unsuitability or impropriety
While 不合适 and 不适合 are your go-to words, you might also encounter or want to use these alternatives depending on the context:
- 不妥 (bùtuǒ) - This is a more formal way to say "improper" or "inappropriate," often used for actions or decisions.
这样做有点不妥。(Zhèyàng zuò yǒudiǎn bùtuǒ.) - Doing it this way is a bit improper/inappropriate.
- 不得体 (bùdétǐ) - This specifically refers to behavior or speech that is not decorous, unseemly, or in bad taste, often in social situations.
他的言行很不得体。(Tā de yánxíng hěn bùdétǐ.) - His words and actions are very indecorous/unseemly.
- 不相称 (bù xiāngchèn) - This means "not proportionate," "not corresponding to," or "not compatible." It emphasizes a mismatch in terms of status, size, or quality.
他的收入和他的消费不相称。(Tā de shōurù hé tā de xiāofèi bù xiāngchèn.) - His income and his spending are disproportionate/not matching.
How Formal Is It?
"这样做似乎不妥，请三思。 (Zhèyàng zuò sìhū bùtuǒ, qǐng sānsī.)"
"这件衣服我穿着不合适。 (Zhè jiàn yīfu wǒ chuān zhe bùhéshì.)"
"他今天有点不对劲，是不是生病了？ (Tā jīntiān yǒudiǎn bùduìjìn, shì bu shì shēngbìng le?)"
"乱扔垃圾是不好的行为。 (Luàn rēng lājī shì bùhǎo de xíngwéi.)"
"为了钱做这种事太掉价了。 (Wèile qián zuò zhè zhǒng shì tài diàojià le.)"
Fun Fact
The character '合' (hé) originally depicted a lid fitting a container, symbolizing agreement or fit.
Difficulty Rating
Common characters, short phrase.
Common characters, short phrase.
Straightforward pronunciation.
Clear and distinct syllables.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Can describe things, people, or situations as unsuitable.
这件衣服不合适。(This piece of clothing is unsuitable.)
Often used with particles like '很' (hěn - very) or '太' (tài - too) for emphasis.
这个计划太不合适了。(This plan is too inappropriate.)
Can be followed by '做' (zuò - to do) to indicate an action is inappropriate.
在这种场合说这种话不合适。(It's inappropriate to say such things on this occasion.)
Can be used as a standalone comment to express disapproval.
这样做有点不合适吧？(Isn't doing it this way a bit inappropriate?)
When used with people, it can mean someone is not suitable for a role or task.
他不太合适这份工作。(He is not very suitable for this job.)
Examples by Level
这个工作对她不合适。
This job is not suitable for her.
这件衣服有点儿不合适。
This piece of clothing is a bit unsuitable (doesn't fit well/doesn't look good).
在公共场合大声说话不合适。
Speaking loudly in public is inappropriate.
这个时间去打扰他不合适。
It's inappropriate to disturb him at this time.
你的建议不合适。
Your suggestion is inappropriate.
他做这个决定有点不合适。
It was a bit inappropriate for him to make this decision.
这种行为不合适。
This kind of behavior is inappropriate.
现在说这个话题不合适。
It's not appropriate to talk about this topic now.
这条裙子对她来说有点不合适，因为颜色太亮了。
This skirt is a bit unsuitable for her, because the color is too bright.
在会议上开这种玩笑可能不合适。
Telling this kind of joke in a meeting might be inappropriate.
这个时间去拜访他有点不合适，他可能还在忙。
It's a bit unsuitable to visit him at this time, he might still be busy.
这份工作对我的经验来说不合适。
This job is unsuitable for my experience.
在公共场合大声喧哗是不合适的行为。
Making a loud noise in public is inappropriate behavior.
他觉得那个提议不合适，所以没有接受。
He felt that proposal was unsuitable, so he didn't accept it.
这双鞋的尺码对我来说不合适，太小了。
The size of these shoes is unsuitable for me, they are too small.
现在谈论这个话题可能不合适，我们换个时间吧。
Talking about this topic now might be inappropriate, let's pick another time.
这条裙子对她来说颜色不合适，她应该选一个更亮的。
This dress is an unsuitable color for her; she should choose something brighter.
在这样的场合穿短裤有点不合适。
Wearing shorts on an occasion like this is a bit inappropriate.
我觉得这个词用在这里不合适，换一个吧。
I think this word isn't suitable here, let's change it.
他的行为在公共场合显得非常不合适。
His behavior in public was very inappropriate.
这个方案不合适，我们需要重新考虑。
This plan is unsuitable; we need to reconsider.
她觉得这份工作对她来说不合适，所以辞职了。
She felt this job was unsuitable for her, so she resigned.
你说的这个时间不合适，我们换个时间见面吧。
The time you suggested isn't suitable, let's meet at another time.
这个地方不合适拍照，光线太暗了。
This place isn't suitable for taking photos; the light is too dim.
你穿这件衣服去参加婚礼有点不合适吧？
It might be a bit unsuitable for you to wear this outfit to a wedding, don't you think?
在公开场合说这种话很不合适。
Saying this kind of thing in public is very inappropriate.
这个方案不合适，我们需要重新考虑。
This plan is unsuitable; we need to reconsider.
他认为现在不是谈论这个话题的合适时机。
He thinks now is not an appropriate time to discuss this topic.
你的行为在当时的情况下显得很不合适。
Your behavior seemed very inappropriate given the circumstances at that time.
这双鞋的尺码对你来说不合适。
This shoe size is not suitable for you.
把私人恩怨带到工作中是不合适的。
It's inappropriate to bring personal grievances into work.
考虑到当前的经济形势，现在投资房地产可能不合适。
Considering the current economic situation, investing in real estate now might not be suitable.
在这种正式场合穿牛仔裤，实在有点不合适。
Wearing jeans in this formal setting is really a bit unsuitable.
他的言论在那个敏感时期显得非常不合适，引起了轩然大波。
His remarks seemed very inappropriate during that sensitive period, causing a huge uproar.
考虑到当前的经济形势，现在大幅投资房地产似乎是个不合适的决定。
Given the current economic situation, investing heavily in real estate now seems like an unsuitable decision.
在这个团队中，他那种傲慢的态度和不合作的精神显得格格不入，非常不合适。
In this team, his arrogant attitude and uncooperative spirit felt out of place and very inappropriate.
医生建议她暂停剧烈运动，因为她的身体状况目前不合适。
The doctor advised her to stop strenuous exercise, as her current physical condition is unsuitable.
在葬礼上大声喧哗是非常不合适的行为。
Making a loud noise at a funeral is very inappropriate behavior.
这个职位需要有丰富的经验，对一个刚毕业的学生来说，可能有些不合适。
This position requires rich experience; for a fresh graduate, it might be somewhat unsuitable.
在公共场合未经允许拍摄他人，这种做法是不合适的，也可能触犯法律。
Taking photos of others in public without permission is an inappropriate practice and may also violate the law.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
这个方案不合适。
This plan is unsuitable.
他说的话很不合适。
What he said was very inappropriate.
现在去有点不合适。
It's a bit unsuitable to go now.
这种衣服在正式场合穿不合适。
This kind of clothing is inappropriate for formal occasions.
他的行为非常不合适。
His behavior was very inappropriate.
我觉得这样做不合适。
I think doing this is unsuitable.
这个时间讨论不合适。
It's not a suitable time to discuss this.
那个职位对他来说不合适。
That position is unsuitable for him.
她的态度很不合适。
Her attitude was very inappropriate.
选这个颜色不合适。
Choosing this color is unsuitable.
Often Confused With
Synonym of 不合适宜, meaning 'untimely' or 'inappropriate for the occasion.' More formal.
Meaning 'improper,' 'not appropriate,' 'not right.' Slightly more formal than 不合适, often used in professional contexts.
Meaning 'unwell,' 'uncomfortable,' or 'not suitable.' Can be confused because of the '适' character, but it generally refers to physical discomfort or unsuitability for a task/environment (e.g., 对...不适 - 'unsuited for...').
Grammar Patterns
Idioms & Expressions
"不合时宜 (bù hé shí yí)"
inappropriate for the occasion, ill-timed
他说的话在那样严肃的场合显得不合时宜。
neutral"不伦不类 (bù lún bù lèi)"
neither fish nor fowl; nondescript; unconventional to the point of being improper
他的着装有点不伦不类，像个小丑。
neutral"格格不入 (gé gé bù rù)"
incompatible; out of place; unable to fit in
他的想法和大家的意见格格不入。
neutral"非分之想 (fēi fèn zhī xiǎng)"
improper thoughts; unrealistic expectations
他有些非分之想，总是想不劳而获。
neutral"岂有此理 (qǐ yǒu cǐ lǐ)"
how can this be so?; preposterous; outrageous
他竟然偷了我的东西，简直岂有此理！
neutral"大错特错 (dà cuò tè cuò)"
completely wrong; a grave mistake
你这样处理问题是大错特错的。
neutral"不得体 (bù dé tǐ)"
improper; unseemly; not in good taste
在公共场合大声喧哗是很不得体的行为。
neutral"离谱 (lí pǔ)"
beyond the scope of reason; outrageous; unbelievable (often used informally)
这个价格也太离谱了，我不能接受。
informal"不三不四 (bù sān bù sì)"
of dubious character; shady; improper (describing a person or behavior)
他总是和那些不三不四的人混在一起。
neutral"有失体统 (yǒu shī tǐ tǒng)"
lose face; improper; undignified (often referring to behavior that degrades one's status or reputation)
作为一名老师，在学生面前抽烟有失体统。
formalEasily Confused
Both can express difficulty or an unfavorable situation.
不合适 focuses on something being improper or not fitting a situation. 不方便 means 'inconvenient' or 'not convenient,' often due to external circumstances.
现在打电话不方便，我在开会。(It's inconvenient to call now, I'm in a meeting.)
Both can indicate something is wrong.
不合适 means 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate' based on context or standards. 不对 means 'wrong' or 'incorrect,' often factually or morally.
你说的这个答案不对。(The answer you said is incorrect.)
Both can describe something negative.
不合适 is specific to suitability or appropriateness. 不好 is a general negative term meaning 'bad,' 'not good,' or 'unwell.'
我今天身体不好。(I'm not feeling well today.)
Both can imply something shouldn't happen.
不合适 describes a state of being unsuitable or inappropriate. 不应该 means 'should not' or 'ought not,' expressing an obligation or recommendation against an action.
你不应该那样说。(You shouldn't say that.)
This phrase is very similar in meaning.
不合适宜 is a more formal and slightly stronger way to say 'inappropriate' or 'untimely,' often specifically referring to timing or circumstances. 不合适 is more general.
在葬礼上开玩笑很不合适宜。(Cracking jokes at a funeral is very inappropriate/untimely.)
Sentence Patterns
这个 (zhège) [noun] 不合适。
这个衣服不合适。
[subject] 觉得 (juéde) [something] 不合适。
我觉得这个颜色不合适。
对 (duì) [person/thing] 来说 (láishuō), [something] 不合适。
对孩子来说，这个电影不合适。
[situation] 不合适。
现在出去不合适。
[subject] 穿 (chuān) 这个 (zhège) [noun] 不合适。
他穿这个裤子不合适。
[subject] 认为 (rènwéi) [something] 在 (zài) [situation] 不合适。
她认为这个话题在饭桌上不合适。
因为 (yīnwèi) [reason], 所以 (suǒyǐ) [something] 不合适。
因为下雨，所以今天去野餐不合适。
在 (zài) [occasion/context] 做 (zuò) [action] 是 (shì) 不合适的。
在会议上玩手机是不合适的。
Word Family
Adjectives
Tips
Basic Meaning
不合适 (bù hé shì) literally means 'not suitable' or 'not appropriate'. It's a very common and practical phrase.
Use for Objects/Situations
You can use it for things that aren't a good fit. For example, 这件衣服不合适。(Zhè jiàn yīfu bù hé shì.) This piece of clothing is unsuitable.
Use for People/Actions
It also describes actions or behaviors that are inappropriate. 这样做不合适。(Zhè yàng zuò bù hé shì.) Doing it this way is inappropriate.
Contrast with 合适
The opposite is 合适 (hé shì), which means 'suitable' or 'appropriate'. Learning them together helps. 这双鞋很合适。(Zhè shuāng xié hěn hé shì.) This pair of shoes is very suitable.
Common Context: Gifts
When someone gives you a gift that you don't need or can't use, you might say, 这个礼物不合适。(Zhège lǐwù bù hé shì.) This gift is not suitable (for me).
Common Context: Time
You can also use it to say a time is inconvenient or unsuitable. 这个时间不合适。(Zhège shíjiān bù hé shì.) This time is inappropriate.
Politeness in Rejection
Saying something is '不合适' can be a polite way to decline or express discomfort without being too direct, especially in a professional setting. It implies the situation itself is not ideal, rather than directly blaming someone.
Sentence Structure
It usually follows the structure: [Subject] + [不合适]. Example: 这件事不合适。(Zhè jiàn shì bù hé shì.) This matter is inappropriate.
Practice with Questions
Ask yourself: 这合适吗？(Zhè hé shì ma?) Is this appropriate? Then answer: 合适 or 不合适. It's a simple way to practice.
Listen for Context
Pay attention to how native speakers use 不合适 in different situations. Sometimes it implies something is unseemly or improper beyond just 'not fitting'.
Word Origin
From '不' (bù, not) and '合适' (héshì, suitable).
Original meaning: Not suitable.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic, Mandarin.Cultural Context
The concept of '不合适' (bù héshì) in Chinese culture often extends beyond simple suitability to include considerations of social harmony and face. Something might be unsuitable not just because it doesn't fit a practical purpose, but because it could cause embarrassment, disrespect, or awkwardness in a social situation. This makes the word subtly nuanced beyond a direct translation.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsBoth mean 'wrong' or 'incorrect' but 不合适 implies 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate for the context or situation'. 不对 is a more general 'incorrect' or 'not right'.
Example:
这件衣服不合适。(This clothing is unsuitable/doesn't fit the occasion.)
你说的不对。(What you said is incorrect.)
Yes, absolutely! You can say someone is 不合适 for a job, a role, or even as a partner. It means they are 'not suitable' or 'not a good fit'.
Example:
他不合适这份工作。(He is not suitable for this job.)
Often when something doesn't quite fit the situation, or it's not ideal. Think about clothes, timing, or even a suggestion.
Example:
这个时间去不合适。(Going at this time is not appropriate.)
It often carries a negative connotation because it points out something isn't right or ideal. However, it's generally a softer way to express disapproval compared to a direct 'bad' (不好).
Example:
这样做有点不合适。(Doing it this way is a bit inappropriate.)
You can add words like 有点 (yǒudiǎn - a little bit) or 好像 (hǎoxiàng - seems like) to soften it.
Example:
这好像有点不合适。(This seems a little inappropriate.)
Yes, but it's more about the style or appropriateness for an occasion rather than just the physical fit. If something is too big or too small, you'd usually say 不合身 (bù héshēn - doesn't fit the body).
Example:
这件衬衫颜色不合适。(The color of this shirt is unsuitable [for the occasion/my skin tone]).
The opposite is 合适 (héshì), which means 'suitable' or 'appropriate'.
Example:
这很合适。(This is very suitable/appropriate.)
Yes, you can use it for ideas, suggestions, or decisions that aren't appropriate or suitable for a given context.
Example:
这个建议不合适。(This suggestion is unsuitable.)
It depends on the context and your tone. It's generally less blunt than saying something is 'bad'. If you use it to describe a situation or an inanimate object, it's usually fine. When talking about a person's actions or qualities, be mindful of your tone.
Example:
对不起，那个提议不合适。(Sorry, that proposal is unsuitable.)
You can form a question by adding 吗 (ma) at the end, or by using the A-not-A question form.
Example:
这样说合适吗？(Is it appropriate to say it this way?)
这样说合不合适？(Is it appropriate or not to say it this way?)
Test Yourself 174 questions
这件衣服有点小，对我来说可能____。
The sentence indicates the clothes are a bit small, so 'unsuitable' is the correct fit.
这个时间去商店，可能不太____。
The sentence suggests the timing for going to the store isn't ideal, making 'unsuitable' the best choice.
他说的话有点____，我不太高兴。
The speaker is unhappy with what was said, so 'inappropriate' describes the words.
这个地方太吵了，学习____。
A noisy place is 'unsuitable' for studying.
他穿的衣服在派对上看起来有点____。
If the clothes look 'a bit' off at a party, they are 'inappropriate'.
这个礼物对她来说____，她不喜欢。
She doesn't like the gift, indicating it is 'unsuitable' for her.
Choose the correct translation for '不合适':
'不合适' means 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate'.
Which sentence uses '不合适' correctly?
Here, '不合适' is used to describe that the dress is not suitable for the person.
If something is '不合适', it means it is...
'不合适' indicates something is not appropriate or suitable for a given situation.
The word '不合适' means 'suitable'.
'不合适' means 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate', the opposite of 'suitable'.
You can use '不合适' to say a pair of shoes doesn't fit you well.
Yes, '这双鞋不合适我' (This pair of shoes is unsuitable for me) is a correct usage.
If you say '这个时间不合适', you mean it's a good time.
'这个时间不合适' means 'This time is not suitable' or 'This is an inappropriate time'.
This clothing is unsuitable.
This time is inappropriate.
What he said is inappropriate.
Read this aloud:
这个鞋子不合适我。
Focus: bù hé shì
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
这个地方不合适。
Focus: bù hé shì
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他说这个主意不合适。
Focus: zhǔ yi bù hé shì
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You want to buy a pair of shoes, but they are too big. Write a sentence saying the shoes are not suitable.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这双鞋子不合适。
Your friend suggests going to a restaurant that is too expensive for you. Write a sentence saying the restaurant is not suitable.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这个饭馆不合适。
You are looking for a job, but one job requires skills you don't have. Write a sentence saying the job is not suitable.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这个工作不合适。
小明觉得哪件衣服不合适？
Read this passage:
小明想买一件衣服。他试穿了一件红色的，但是太大了。他又试穿了一件蓝色的，大小合适，但是颜色他不喜欢。最后，他看到一件白色的，大小和颜色都很好。他觉得那件红色的衣服不合适。
小明觉得哪件衣服不合适？
文章中说“他觉得那件红色的衣服不合适。” (He thought the red clothes were not suitable.)
文章中说“他觉得那件红色的衣服不合适。” (He thought the red clothes were not suitable.)
为什么“我”觉得图书馆不合适？
Read this passage:
今天天气很好，我想去公园玩。我的朋友说他想去图书馆。我觉得图书馆不合适，因为天气这么好，应该在外面玩。
为什么“我”觉得图书馆不合适？
文章中说“我觉得图书馆不合适，因为天气这么好，应该在外面玩。” (I think the library is not suitable because the weather is so good, we should play outside.)
文章中说“我觉得图书馆不合适，因为天气这么好，应该在外面玩。” (I think the library is not suitable because the weather is so good, we should play outside.)
丽丽觉得哪个礼物不合适？
Read this passage:
丽丽想买一个礼物送给妈妈。她看到一个很贵的包，但是她没有那么多钱。她又看到一个很便宜的杯子，但是她觉得太普通了。最后，她选了一个漂亮的围巾，价格也合适。她觉得那个很贵的包不合适。
丽丽觉得哪个礼物不合适？
文章中说“她觉得那个很贵的包不合适。” (She thought the very expensive bag was not suitable.)
文章中说“她觉得那个很贵的包不合适。” (She thought the very expensive bag was not suitable.)
This sentence means 'This piece of clothing is unsuitable.' The order is 'This piece of' (这件) 'clothing' (衣服) 'unsuitable' (不合适).
This sentence means 'This time is not suitable for meeting.' The order is 'This' (这个) 'time' (时间) 'not suitable' (不合适) 'to meet' (见面).
This sentence means 'His answer is inappropriate.' The order is 'His' (他的) 'answer' (回答) 'inappropriate' (不合适).
这件衣服有点小，穿起来可能不太___。
The sentence implies the clothes might not 'fit' well, making '合适' (suitable) the best choice. '方便' means convenient, '喜欢' means like, and '舒服' means comfortable.
这个时间去商店，可能有点___，商店要关门了。
If the store is closing, going at that time would be '不合适' (unsuitable). '好' means good, '合适' means suitable, and '早' means early.
在图书馆大声说话是___的行为。
Speaking loudly in a library is generally considered '不合适' (inappropriate). '对' means correct, '可以' means okay, and '不错' means not bad.
我觉得这个礼物送给小孩子___。
The sentence implies the gift might not be good for a child, making '不合适' (unsuitable) the most likely answer. The other options are positive or unrelated.
这样的天气穿短袖，有点___。
If the weather makes wearing short sleeves 'unsuitable', then '不合适' is the correct choice. '冷' means cold, '热' means hot, and '合适' means suitable.
这个场合穿运动鞋，可能不太___。
Wearing sneakers for a particular occasion might be '不合适' (inappropriate). '方便' means convenient, '好' means good, and '舒服' means comfortable.
Choose the most appropriate response. A friend asks you to wear a very formal dress to a casual party. You might say: 这件衣服太___了。
You would say '这件衣服太不合适了' (Zhè jiàn yīfu tài bùhéshì le) meaning 'This outfit is too unsuitable/inappropriate' for a casual party.
Your boss gives you a task that you don't have the skills for. You could politely decline by saying: 这个任务对我来说有点___。
You would say '这个任务对我来说有点不合适' (Zhège rènwu duì wǒ lái shuō yǒudiǎn bùhéshì) meaning 'This task is a bit unsuitable for me' if you don't have the skills.
Which situation describes something '不合适' (bùhéshì)?
Wearing a swimsuit to a business meeting is inappropriate, or '不合适' (bùhéshì).
If something is '不合适' (bùhéshì), it means it is a good fit for the situation.
'不合适' (bùhéshì) means unsuitable or inappropriate, the opposite of a good fit.
When you say someone's behavior is '不合适' (bùhéshì), you are saying their behavior is acceptable.
Saying someone's behavior is '不合适' (bùhéshì) means it's inappropriate or unacceptable, not acceptable.
This sentence: '这双鞋子对他来说太大了，不合适。' (Zhè shuāng xiézi duì tā lái shuō tài dà le, bùhéshì.) means 'These shoes are too big for him, they are unsuitable.'
The sentence accurately describes the shoes being too big and therefore unsuitable.
This piece of clothing is unsuitable for you.
This job is not suitable for her.
It's not appropriate to go to the park now, it's raining outside.
Read this aloud:
这个鞋子不合适我。
Focus: bù hé shì
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他说的话很不合适。
Focus: hěn bù hé shì
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
穿短裤参加正式会议不合适。
Focus: bù hé shì
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You want to tell a friend that a certain time for meeting is not suitable. How would you say this in Chinese?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这个时间不合适。
Imagine someone is wearing something that is inappropriate for the situation. How would you describe their clothing using '不合适'?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这件衣服很不合适。
You are at a restaurant and the music is too loud, making it an unsuitable environment for talking. How would you express this in Chinese?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
这个环境不适合聊天。
为什么小明的妈妈说红色的衬衫不合适他？
Read this passage:
小明想买一件新衣服。他试穿了一件红色的衬衫，但是他的妈妈说这件衣服颜色太亮了，不合适他。小明觉得有点不开心。
为什么小明的妈妈说红色的衬衫不合适他？
文章中提到 '这件衣服颜色太亮了，不合适他'，所以是因为颜色太亮。
文章中提到 '这件衣服颜色太亮了，不合适他'，所以是因为颜色太亮。
朋友为什么说小丽穿T恤不合适？
Read this passage:
今天天气很冷，但是小丽穿了一件T恤。她的朋友说，'你穿T恤不合适，会感冒的。' 小丽听了，就去换了一件厚外套。
朋友为什么说小丽穿T恤不合适？
文章开头说明 '今天天气很冷'，朋友因此提醒她穿T恤不合适。
文章开头说明 '今天天气很冷'，朋友因此提醒她穿T恤不合适。
为什么经理觉得小王的穿着不合适？
Read this passage:
公司要开一个很重要的会议。小王穿着一条短裤来参加会议。他的经理看到后说：'小王，你这样穿不合适。' 小王马上回去换了裤子。
为什么经理觉得小王的穿着不合适？
文章中提到 '公司要开一个很重要的会议'，这种场合穿短裤是不合适的。
文章中提到 '公司要开一个很重要的会议'，这种场合穿短裤是不合适的。
The correct order is 'This skirt is unsuitable for her.'
The correct order is 'This joke is too inappropriate for the occasion.'
The correct order is 'It's not suitable to wear shorts in today's weather.'
这件衣服有点小，穿起来可能不太___。
The sentence implies the clothes are too small, so 'unsuitable' or 'not fitting' (不合适) is the correct choice.
在这种正式场合穿短裤，感觉有点___。
Wearing shorts in a formal setting is generally considered inappropriate, making '不合适' the best fit.
他在会议上说了一些___的话，让大家都很尴尬。
Words that cause embarrassment in a meeting are likely inappropriate, hence '不合适'.
这个时间去拜访客人，是不是有点___？
The question implies a concern about the timing of the visit, suggesting it might be 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate'.
他的意见虽然是好意，但在当时的情境下，表达方式有些___。
Even with good intentions, the way an opinion is expressed can be inappropriate for the situation, so '不合适' is correct.
这个方案听起来不错，但考虑到公司的实际情况，可能还不太___。
A plan that doesn't align with the company's actual situation would be 'unsuitable' or 'not appropriate'.
她觉得这份工作对她来说有点___。
The sentence indicates that the job isn't quite right for her, so '不合适' (unsuitable) is the correct choice.
这个场合穿短裤有点___。
Wearing shorts for this occasion is likely '不合适' (inappropriate).
他的行为在公共场合看起来很不___。
His behavior in public seems very '不合适' (inappropriate).
如果一件衣服太大，那就是 '不合适'。
Yes, if clothes are too big, they are '不合适' (unsuitable) in size.
在正式会议上讲笑话是很 '合适' 的行为。
No, telling jokes at a formal meeting is generally '不合适' (inappropriate).
朋友之间开玩笑，只要双方都不介意，就不算 '不合适'。
Yes, if both friends are fine with the jokes, it's not '不合适' (inappropriate).
The speaker is talking about the color of a piece of clothing.
The speaker is discussing the timing of a meeting.
The speaker is commenting on someone's behavior in a certain situation.
Read this aloud:
你觉得穿这双鞋去参加婚礼合适吗？
Focus: 合适 (hé shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我觉得这个计划有点儿不合适，我们需要再讨论一下。
Focus: 不合适 (bù hé shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
在公共场合大声喧哗是不合适的行为。
Focus: 行为 (xíng wéi)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you're trying to choose an outfit for a friend's wedding. Describe an outfit that would be 不合适 (bù héshì) for the occasion and explain why in a few sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我觉得穿牛仔裤和T恤参加婚礼会很不合适。因为婚礼是一个很正式的场合，这样穿太随便了，不够尊重新人。而且，白色或黑色在有些文化中也是不合适的婚礼颜色。
You are giving advice to a foreign friend who just moved to China. What kind of behavior or topic of conversation would be 不合适 (bù héshì) in a first meeting with Chinese colleagues? Explain your reasoning.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
第一次和中国同事见面时，谈论他们的收入或者私人的感情问题会很不合适。在中国文化中，这些话题比较敏感，最好不要在不熟悉的时候问。保持礼貌和职业是最好的。
Your company is looking for a new office space. Describe a potential office location or type of building that would be 不合适 (bù héshì) for your company's needs and explain why.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我觉得在酒吧街附近找办公室会很不合适。那里晚上太吵了，会影响员工的工作效率。而且，交通可能也不太方便，停车位也很少。
小李为什么认为自己的穿着不合适？
Read this passage:
小李在面试一家非常严格的公司时，穿了一件非常休闲的衣服。面试官看到他的着装后，觉得他的态度有些不认真。面试结束后，小李反思了一下，觉得自己的穿着确实不合适。
小李为什么认为自己的穿着不合适？
文章中提到“面试官看到他的着装后，觉得他的态度有些不认真”，这表明着装不合适是因为它传递了不认真的态度，与公司的严格要求不符。
文章中提到“面试官看到他的着装后，觉得他的态度有些不认真”，这表明着装不合适是因为它传递了不认真的态度，与公司的严格要求不符。
根据这段文字，在图书馆里大声讲电话为什么是不合适的行为？
Read this passage:
在一个图书馆里，有一个人正在大声讲电话，声音很大，影响了其他看书的人。旁边的管理员走过去提醒他，说在图书馆里大声喧哗是不合适的行为。
根据这段文字，在图书馆里大声讲电话为什么是不合适的行为？
文章中明确提到“影响了其他看书的人”，所以大声讲电话是不合适的原因。
文章中明确提到“影响了其他看书的人”，所以大声讲电话是不合适的原因。
小王为什么觉得带花给朋友是不合适的？
Read this passage:
小王去朋友家做客，带了一大束花。但是他忘记了朋友对花粉过敏。当朋友看到花后，开始打喷嚏。小王这才意识到，带花粉多的花给过敏的朋友是不合适的。
小王为什么觉得带花给朋友是不合适的？
文章中提到“他忘记了朋友对花粉过敏”，这是带花不合适的主要原因。
文章中提到“他忘记了朋友对花粉过敏”，这是带花不合适的主要原因。
The correct order forms the sentence 'Wearing shorts on this occasion is inappropriate.'
The correct order forms the sentence 'It's inappropriate to say such things in the office.'
The correct order forms the sentence 'The suggestion he brought up now is unsuitable.'
在重要的会议上，穿着太随便会显得非常____。
在正式场合穿得太随便会被认为是不得体、不妥当的。
这个礼物对她来说太贵了，我觉得有点____。
送太贵重的礼物可能会让对方感到压力或不自在，所以“不合适”在这里表达了不恰当的意思。
你在这个时候提出辞职，老板会觉得非常____。
在公司可能面临困难或项目关键时期提出辞职，会被认为是时机不当、不恰当的行为。
他说话的方式有时候比较直接，会让人觉得____。
过于直接的说话方式可能会冒犯到别人，让人感到不舒服，因此是“不合适”的。
这种极端的观点在目前的社会背景下是____的。
在特定社会背景下，某些极端观点可能与主流价值观不符，因此被认为“不合适”。
在公共场合大声喧哗是____的行为。
在公共场合大声喧哗会打扰到他人，是不文明、不恰当的行为。
Choose the most appropriate response. A friend asks for advice on what to wear to a formal event. They suggest a casual T-shirt and shorts. What would you say?
The context is a formal event, and 'casual T-shirt and shorts' would be 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate'. Therefore, '我觉得那样穿不太合适' (I think wearing that would be unsuitable/inappropriate) is the most fitting response.
A colleague is telling a joke during a serious business meeting that makes others uncomfortable. How would you describe their joke?
In a serious business meeting, a joke that makes others uncomfortable is 'inappropriate'. '这个笑话很不合适' means 'This joke is very inappropriate'.
You see someone littering in a beautiful park. What is your reaction?
Littering in a park is 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate' behavior. '这种行为很不合适' means 'This behavior is very inappropriate'.
It's generally considered appropriate to wear flip-flops to a job interview.
Wearing flip-flops to a job interview is generally considered 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate' due to the formal nature of the event.
It's always appropriate to discuss someone's personal financial situation in public.
Discussing someone's personal financial situation in public is often considered 'inappropriate' as it can be a sensitive topic.
In most cultures, it is considered appropriate to give a thumbs-up to show approval.
Giving a thumbs-up generally signals approval and is widely considered appropriate in most cultures, thus it's not '不合适'.
Consider the meaning of '不合适' in the context of giving a gift.
Think about what kind of clothing would be '不合适' for a formal event.
What kind of behavior is '不合适' in public?
Read this aloud:
这个座位对你来说是不是不合适？
Focus: 不合适 (bù hé shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我觉得那个时间开会不太合适，我们换个时间吧。
Focus: 不太合适 (bù tài hé shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他提出了一个不合适的建议，大家都没有同意。
Focus: 不合适的建议 (bù hé shì de jiàn yì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
The correct order is '这个时间' (this time) + '不合适' (is not suitable) + '讨论这个问题' (to discuss this problem).
The sentence structure is '她的评论' (her comment) + '在那个场合' (on that occasion) + '显得' (appeared to be) + '不合适' (inappropriate).
The phrase '穿短裤去正式的晚宴' (wearing shorts to a formal dinner) acts as the subject, followed by '是' (is) and '不合适的' (inappropriate).
在这样的正式场合穿短裤，显得有些___。
Contextually, wearing shorts in a formal setting is deemed 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate'. '不舒服' (uncomfortable), '不方便' (inconvenient), and '不自然' (unnatural) don't quite capture the social impropriety implied.
他的言论在会议上引起了争议，因为大家觉得内容有点___。
If remarks cause controversy, it's often because they are 'inappropriate' or 'unsuitable' for the context. '不明确' (unclear), '不完整' (incomplete), and '不准确' (inaccurate) could be reasons for controversy but '不合适' directly addresses the social impact.
考虑到公司的文化，在年度晚宴上进行这样的表演似乎有些___。
Given the company culture, a certain performance might be seen as 'inappropriate' or 'unsuitable'. '不新颖' (not novel), '不精彩' (not wonderful), and '不普遍' (not common) relate to quality or prevalence, not social fit.
这部电影对于儿童来说，有些场景可能过于暴力，所以被认为是___。
If movie scenes are too violent for children, they are 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate' for that audience. '不有趣' (not interesting), '不真实' (not real), and '不深刻' (not profound) are not the primary concerns here.
在讨论严肃问题时，开这样的玩笑显得非常___。
Making certain jokes during serious discussions is 'inappropriate' or 'unsuitable'. While it might also be '不聪明' (not smart) or '不幽默' (not humorous), '不合适' directly addresses the lack of social propriety.
他认为现在辞职的时机___，可能会对他的职业生涯造成负面影响。
The timing of resignation can be 'unsuitable' or 'inappropriate' and negatively impact a career. '不明确' (unclear), '不肯定' (uncertain), and '不理想' (not ideal) are related but '不合适' best describes the specific issue of timing.
鉴于您缺乏相关经验，这个职位对您来说可能__。
这里的“不合适”指的是由于缺乏经验，这个职位对说话人来说是不恰当的。
在正式场合穿休闲装是__的。
在正式场合穿休闲装是不恰当的，因此选择“不合适”。
这个提议__，我们需要重新考虑。
这个提议可能因为某些原因不恰当，所以需要重新考虑，因此“不合适”是最佳选项。
在图书馆大声喧哗是不合适的行为。
在图书馆保持安静是基本礼仪，大声喧哗确实是不合适的。
如果你觉得这份工作不合适你，你应该继续做下去。
如果一份工作不合适，通常意味着它不符合你的期望或能力，继续做下去可能不是最好的选择。
这个场合的着装要求是正装，穿运动鞋会显得不合适。
在需要穿正装的场合，穿运动鞋确实是不恰当的，会显得不合适。
Listen for why the plan is being reconsidered.
Listen for the description of his attire.
Listen for what was said in public.
Read this aloud:
请你用“不合适”来描述一个你觉得在特定情境下不恰当的行为。
Focus: 不合适 (bù hé shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
想象你在一个面试中，用“不合适”来表达对某个职位要求的不符。
Focus: 不合适 (bù hé shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
你如何用“不合适”来婉拒一个你不想参加的邀请？
Focus: 不合适 (bù hé shì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you are a customer service representative. A customer is complaining about a product they received, saying it's '不合适' (unsuitable). Write a short email response acknowledging their complaint and suggesting a solution. Include at least two different reasons why the product might be unsuitable, and offer one solution.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
尊敬的顾客，您好！我们很抱歉得知您收到的产品不合适。请问是尺寸不合适，还是功能不符合您的需求？您可以选择退货或者更换其他产品。期待您的回复，以便我们能尽快为您解决问题。
You are applying for a job, but after researching the company, you realize the position is '不合适' (inappropriate) for your career goals. Write a short email declining the interview invitation. Explain briefly why the position is not a good fit for you.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
您好，非常感谢贵公司提供的面试机会。在仔细研究了职位描述后，我发现这个职位与我的职业规划不太合适，因此我决定放弃此次面试。祝贵公司招聘顺利！
You are giving advice to a friend who is planning a surprise party. You think their chosen venue is '不合适' (unsuitable) for a surprise party because it's too public. Write a few sentences explaining why it's unsuitable and suggest an alternative.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我觉得那个餐厅作为惊喜派对的场地有点不合适，因为它太公开了，很难制造惊喜。我们不如考虑租一个私人包间或者在我家举办，这样更隐秘一些。
根据短文，小明为什么认为这份工作“不合适”？
Read this passage:
小明最近在找工作。他面试了一家高科技公司，虽然薪水很高，但他觉得这份工作时间长，压力大，而且与他的兴趣爱好完全不符。他认为这份工作对他来说“不合适”。最后，他决定放弃这个机会，去寻找一份更适合自己的工作。
根据短文，小明为什么认为这份工作“不合适”？
短文中明确提到小明觉得这份工作“时间长，压力大，而且与他的兴趣爱好完全不符”，所以他认为“不合适”。
短文中明确提到小明觉得这份工作“时间长，压力大，而且与他的兴趣爱好完全不符”，所以他认为“不合适”。
顾客认为连衣裙“不合适”的原因是什么？
Read this passage:
一位顾客在网上购买了一件连衣裙。收到货后，她发现这件连衣裙的颜色与图片不符，而且尺码也偏大。她觉得这件衣服“不合适”，于是联系了客服要求退货。
顾客认为连衣裙“不合适”的原因是什么？
短文指出，顾客发现“这件连衣裙的颜色与图片不符，而且尺码也偏大”，因此觉得“不合适”。
短文指出，顾客发现“这件连衣裙的颜色与图片不符，而且尺码也偏大”，因此觉得“不合适”。
老师为什么批评小华？
Read this passage:
老师在课堂上批评了小华，因为他在不合适的时机开玩笑。老师强调，虽然开玩笑可以活跃气氛，但在严肃的场合，这样做就显得“不合适”。
老师为什么批评小华？
短文明确说明“老师在课堂上批评了小华，因为他在不合适的时机开玩笑”，因此这是他被批评的原因。
短文明确说明“老师在课堂上批评了小华，因为他在不合适的时机开玩笑”，因此这是他被批评的原因。
The sentence discusses wearing shorts in a particular setting, which is deemed unsuitable. '这个场合' (this occasion) sets the context, followed by the action '穿短裤' (wearing shorts), and then the adverbial phrase '似乎有些' (seems a bit) before '不合适' (unsuitable).
The sentence expresses that joking in a formal meeting is inappropriate. '在这样正式的会议上' (in such a formal meeting) establishes the place, '开玩笑' (joking) is the action, and '确实有些不合适' (indeed a bit inappropriate) describes the nature of the action.
This sentence refers to someone's words to a colleague being inappropriate in public. '他对同事说的那些话' (the words he said to his colleague) is the subject, '在公共场合' (in public) specifies the location, and '显得非常不合适' (appeared very inappropriate) describes how those words came across.
在如此庄重的场合，穿休闲服饰显得非常___，与周围的环境格格不入。
Given the 'solemn occasion' (庄重场合) and 'out of place' (格格不入), '不合适' (unsuitable/inappropriate) is the most fitting word to describe casual attire.
在敏感的国际政治谈判中，任何___的言论都可能导致外交危机。
In sensitive international negotiations, inappropriate remarks (不合适的言论) could lead to a diplomatic crisis. The context demands a word implying impropriety.
公司高层决定撤销那个项目，因为其投资回报率预测过低，被认为是___的长期策略。
A project with a low ROI (投资回报率预测过低) would be considered an unsuitable (不合适) long-term strategy for the company.
尽管他的意图是好的，但在那样悲伤的时刻讲笑话，显得非常___，让家属感到不被尊重。
Telling jokes at a sad moment (悲伤的时刻讲笑话) would be inappropriate (不合适), causing the family to feel disrespected (不被尊重).
这个软件的设计理念虽然先进，但考虑到目标用户的技术水平普遍较低，其操作界面显得过于复杂，有些___。
If the target users have low technical skills (技术水平普遍较低) and the interface is too complex (过于复杂), it means the design is unsuitable (不合适) for them.
鉴于会议议题的严肃性，主持人选择在开场时讲了一个轻松的笑话，很多人觉得这种做法有些___。
For a serious meeting (议题的严肃性), a light joke at the beginning might be seen as inappropriate (不合适) by many attendees.
Choose the most appropriate response: 你的行为在公共场合看起来非常____。
The sentence describes behavior in public that is not suitable or proper, making '不合适' the best fit.
Which of the following situations would be considered '不合适' for wearing casual clothes?
Wearing casual clothes to a formal business meeting is generally considered inappropriate.
老板对这份报告的质量感到不满，认为它____。
If the boss is dissatisfied with the report's quality, it suggests the report is not up to standard or is inappropriate for its purpose.
在葬礼上穿鲜艳的衣服是完全合适的。
Wearing brightly colored clothes at a funeral is generally considered inappropriate or '不合适'.
如果一个建议在当前环境下毫无用处，那么可以说它'不合适'。
If a suggestion is useless in the current context, it means it is not suitable or '不合适' for the situation.
在图书馆大声喧哗是合乎礼仪的行为，因此'不合适'这个词不适用于这种情况。
Making loud noise in a library is definitely not appropriate and therefore '不合适'.
Someone thinks the contract terms are unsuitable and need modification.
Wearing casual clothes in a serious setting is very inappropriate.
The plan sounds good, but there might be some unsuitable aspects in its execution.
Read this aloud:
你觉得在公司会议上开玩笑合适吗？
Focus: 合适 (héshì)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
这份礼物对她来说，会不会显得太不合适了？
Focus: 太不合适了 (tài bù héshì le)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
他的一些言论在公共场合被认为是极度不合适的。
Focus: 极度不合适的 (jídù bù héshì de)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you are an event planner. You've just reviewed a proposal for a corporate gala, and several aspects seem inappropriate or unsuitable for the client's brand image. Write an email to your assistant, detailing which elements of the proposal are不合适 and why, suggesting alternative approaches. Focus on the nuances of '不合适' in a professional context.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
小李， 我刚刚审阅了关于年度企业晚会的策划案。其中有几点我认为不合适，需要进行调整。首先，关于场地布置的紫色和金色搭配，与我们客户的严肃企业形象不符，显得过于奢华，我们应该选择更简洁、专业的色调。其次，提案中的互动游戏环节过于轻松随意，可能不适合高层领导的参与，建议改为更能促进商务交流的活动。最后，菜单上的部分菜品口味偏重，不符合健康饮食的趋势，我们最好提供更多清淡、多样化的选择。请你根据这些反馈，重新修改策划案，并尽快提交给我。 谢谢！ 王经理
You are a university ethics committee member. A student has submitted a research proposal that raises ethical concerns, making it unsuitable for approval in its current form. Write a concise memo to the student, explaining why their proposal is不合适 and what specific areas need revision to meet ethical standards. Use formal language.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
致XX同学： 关于您提交的“大学生心理健康与社交媒体使用习惯”研究提案，伦理委员会已审阅完毕。我们认为该提案在当前形式下存在不合适之处，主要体现在以下几个方面：首先，关于数据收集环节，未能充分保障受试者的匿名性与隐私权，可能导致信息泄露的风险。其次，知情同意书的措辞不够清晰，未能明确告知受试者研究的潜在风险与退出机制。此外，研究中对敏感问题的询问方式可能对受试者造成心理压力，缺乏必要的心理支持方案。鉴于上述问题，您的研究提案不适合直接批准。请您根据上述意见进行详细修改，特别是要加强对受试者权益的保护措施，并重新提交申请。 大学伦理委员会 [日期]
You are a fashion critic reviewing a new clothing line. While some pieces are innovative, others are completely out of touch with current trends and the target audience, making them不合适. Write a paragraph for your column, describing specific examples of garments that are不合适 and elaborating on why they fail, considering both aesthetics and market appeal.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
本季新品中，不乏令人眼前一亮的设计，但也有几款单品显得格格不入，甚至可以说是不合适。例如，那件融合了维多利亚时期蕾丝与未来主义金属光泽的连衣裙，尽管其剪裁复杂，却完全忽视了当代极简主义的审美趋势，显得过于繁复和沉重，与品牌所宣称的年轻、活力形象大相径庭。再如，那些过于宽大的廓形西装，虽然意图营造一种随性，但在面料选择上却过于厚重，导致整体造型臃肿，完全不适合亚洲女性的体型，更无法吸引追求轻盈感的消费者。这类设计不仅未能抓住市场脉搏，更在美学上出现了偏差。
根据这段文字，该国代表的着装为什么被认为不合适？
Read this passage:
在一次高级别国际会议上，某国代表的着装引起了广泛争议。他选择了一件带有明显民族图腾的休闲衬衫，搭配牛仔裤。评论员指出，尽管展现文化特色值得鼓励，但在如此庄重的外交场合，这样的着装显得极其不合适，缺乏对会议严肃性的基本尊重。这不仅影响了其个人形象，也可能被解读为对其他参会者的不敬。
根据这段文字，该国代表的着装为什么被认为不合适？
文章明确指出，“但在如此庄重的外交场合，这样的着装显得极其不合适，缺乏对会议严肃性的基本尊重。” 这表明休闲衬衫和牛仔裤与高级别外交场合的庄重性不符。
文章明确指出，“但在如此庄重的外交场合，这样的着装显得极其不合适，缺乏对会议严肃性的基本尊重。” 这表明休闲衬衫和牛仔裤与高级别外交场合的庄重性不符。
市场部的同事为什么认为技术总监的演讲风格不合适？
Read this passage:
公司新产品发布会上，技术总监在演示过程中多次使用过于专业的行话，并且语速极快，几乎没有给观众理解的时间。市场部的同事私下议论，认为他的演讲风格对于面对普通消费者的新品发布会来说，显得非常不合适。他们担心这会导致消费者对产品产生距离感，无法有效传达产品优势。
市场部的同事为什么认为技术总监的演讲风格不合适？
文章提到“技术总监在演示过程中多次使用过于专业的行话，并且语速极快，几乎没有给观众理解的时间。”以及“对于面对普通消费者的新品发布会来说，显得非常不合适。”这都说明了问题所在。
文章提到“技术总监在演示过程中多次使用过于专业的行话，并且语速极快，几乎没有给观众理解的时间。”以及“对于面对普通消费者的新品发布会来说，显得非常不合适。”这都说明了问题所在。
根据这段文字，主持人讲笑话为什么被认为不合适？
Read this passage:
在一个庄严的悼念仪式上，主持人为了活跃气氛，讲述了一个幽默的笑话。虽然本意是好的，但现场立刻陷入一片尴尬的沉默。许多参与者表示，在这样一个悲伤的场合，任何形式的过度轻松都显得极其不合适，是对逝者的不敬。主持人后来也为自己的失误深感抱歉。
根据这段文字，主持人讲笑话为什么被认为不合适？
文章明确指出“在一个庄严的悼念仪式上，主持人为了活跃气氛，讲述了一个幽默的笑话。”但“在这样一个悲伤的场合，任何形式的过度轻松都显得极其不合适，是对逝者的不敬。”
文章明确指出“在一个庄严的悼念仪式上，主持人为了活跃气氛，讲述了一个幽默的笑话。”但“在这样一个悲伤的场合，任何形式的过度轻松都显得极其不合适，是对逝者的不敬。”
This sentence means 'This outfit is a bit unsuitable for such an occasion.' The structure follows subject-verb-object.
This sentence translates to 'Your suggestion might not be very suitable under the current circumstances.' The adverbial phrase '在目前情况下' comes before the verb.
This sentence means 'This word seems unsuitable here, let's change it.' The phrase '用在这里' clarifies where the word is being used.
/ 174 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Use 不合适 to say something is unsuitable or inappropriate for a situation or person.
- Unsuitable
- Inappropriate
- Doesn't fit
Basic Meaning
不合适 (bù hé shì) literally means 'not suitable' or 'not appropriate'. It's a very common and practical phrase.
Use for Objects/Situations
You can use it for things that aren't a good fit. For example, 这件衣服不合适。(Zhè jiàn yīfu bù hé shì.) This piece of clothing is unsuitable.
Use for People/Actions
It also describes actions or behaviors that are inappropriate. 这样做不合适。(Zhè yàng zuò bù hé shì.) Doing it this way is inappropriate.
Contrast with 合适
The opposite is 合适 (hé shì), which means 'suitable' or 'appropriate'. Learning them together helps. 这双鞋很合适。(Zhè shuāng xié hěn hé shì.) This pair of shoes is very suitable.
