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B2 verb 9 min read

设法

shèfǎ
Examples
Explanation 设法 in your Level:
At the A1 level, the word '设法' (shè fǎ) is generally considered too advanced for active use, as beginners are primarily focused on basic survival vocabulary, simple sentence structures, and everyday greetings. However, it is an excellent opportunity to introduce the individual characters, which are highly foundational. The character '法' (fǎ) is extremely common and will be seen early on in words like '法国' (Fǎ guó - France) or '语法' (yǔ fǎ - grammar). It originally relates to law, method, or way. The character '设' (shè) might be seen slightly later, but it means to set up or establish, as in '设计' (shè jì - design). While an A1 learner does not need to memorize '设法' as a whole word just yet, understanding that combining 'set up' (设) and 'method' (法) creates a word meaning 'to devise a method' or 'to try to find a solution' provides a great early lesson in how Chinese compound words are logically constructed. If an A1 learner wants to express the idea of 'trying', they should stick to the much simpler verb '试' (shì), which means to try or test something out, like trying on clothes or tasting food. '设法' is reserved for more complex problem-solving that A1 learners will encounter later in their studies. Nevertheless, recognizing these characters early builds a strong foundation for future vocabulary acquisition.
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For learners at the A2 level, '设法' (shè fǎ) introduces the concept of problem-solving vocabulary, though it remains a bit formal for standard A2 dialogues. At this stage, learners are comfortable with everyday problem-solving phrases like '找办法' (zhǎo bàn fǎ - look for a method) or '想办法' (xiǎng bàn fǎ - think of a method). These phrases are perfectly adequate for the daily life scenarios typically covered in A2, such as figuring out how to buy a train ticket, fixing a broken bicycle, or planning a weekend trip. '设法' can be introduced as the 'grown-up' or 'formal' version of '想办法'. An A2 learner might start noticing '设法' in slightly more complex reading texts, such as simple news summaries or graded readers where characters face significant obstacles. The key takeaway for an A2 learner is to recognize '设法' when reading or listening, understanding that it means the subject is trying very hard to figure out a solution. They should know that it functions as a verb, placed right before the action they are trying to do. For example, '设法去' (try to go) or '设法做' (try to do). While active usage isn't strictly necessary at this level, passive recognition is a great stepping stone towards B1, helping bridge the gap between casual spoken Chinese and more formal written texts.
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At the B1 level, learners are crossing the threshold into intermediate Chinese, where expressing nuance and adapting to different levels of formality becomes crucial. This is the perfect time to actively incorporate '设法' (shè fǎ) into one's vocabulary. B1 learners are often tasked with writing short essays, giving opinions, and describing more complex situations beyond simple daily routines. Using '设法' instead of the ubiquitous '想办法' instantly elevates the quality of their spoken and written output. It demonstrates an understanding of register—knowing when to use formal versus informal language. At this stage, learners should practice using '设法' with common verbs they already know, creating phrases like '设法解决' (try to solve), '设法联系' (try to contact), or '设法了解' (try to understand). A key grammar point for B1 learners is remembering that '设法' is a verb that takes another verb phrase as its object; it cannot be used as a noun. They should also be introduced to the idiom '想方设法' (xiǎng fāng shè fǎ), which means to try every possible means. Using this four-character idiom in a B1 speaking test or essay will significantly impress examiners. By mastering '设法', B1 learners show they are ready to tackle the more sophisticated texts and professional scenarios that await them in the B2 level.
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At the B2 level, '设法' (shè fǎ) is an expected and essential part of a learner's active vocabulary. B2 learners are engaging with authentic Chinese materials: reading real news articles, watching Chinese television dramas, and discussing abstract or professional topics. In these contexts, '设法' is ubiquitous. It is the standard vocabulary choice in journalism, business, and formal narratives to describe strategic efforts to overcome difficulties. A B2 learner must be able to use '设法' confidently and accurately in their own writing and professional speaking. They need to understand its collocations, such as pairing it with adverbs like '尽量' (jǐn liàng - to the best of one's ability) to form '尽量设法' (try one's best to devise a way), or '必须' (bì xū - must) to form '必须设法' (must find a way). Furthermore, B2 learners should be able to distinguish '设法' from its close synonyms like '试图' (shì tú - to attempt) and '企图' (qǐ tú - to attempt, usually with negative intent). They should understand that '设法' implies a focus on the methodology and the genuine effort to solve a problem, whereas '试图' is more about the mere intention or the act of attempting. Mastery at this level means not just knowing the translation, but understanding the pragmatic weight and the precise context in which '设法' is the most appropriate lexical choice.
For C1 learners, the usage of '设法' (shè fǎ) should be completely natural and intuitive. At this advanced level of proficiency, learners are not just using the word to convey basic meaning; they are using it for stylistic variation and rhetorical effect in complex essays, debates, and professional presentations. A C1 learner understands the subtle psychological undertones of the word. When an author writes that a character '设法' did something, the C1 reader immediately grasps the implied background of struggle, resourcefulness, and strategic thinking without needing it explicitly stated. C1 learners should be adept at using '设法' within complex sentence structures, such as concessive clauses ('尽管困难重重，他还是设法完成了任务' - Despite the heavy difficulties, he still managed to complete the task). They should also be familiar with how '设法' is used in official government documents or high-level corporate reports, where it denotes systematic organizational efforts rather than just personal attempts. Moreover, C1 learners should deeply understand the etymological roots of '设' and '法' to infer the meanings of related, more obscure vocabulary. They should seamlessly integrate idioms like '千方百计' (qiān fāng bǎi jì) and '想方设法' into their discourse, using them to add color and native-like phrasing to their high-level communication.
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At the C2 level, learners possess a near-native command of the Chinese language, and their relationship with the word '设法' (shè fǎ) reflects this deep mastery. A C2 user does not merely use the word correctly; they understand its historical evolution, its presence in classical-adjacent modern texts, and its subtle prosodic role in sentence rhythm. They can manipulate the formality of a text by consciously choosing between '设法', '试图', '竭力' (jié lì - to do one's utmost), or colloquial equivalents depending on the exact stylistic requirement of the moment. In literary translation or high-level academic writing, a C2 user knows exactly when '设法' perfectly captures the English nuance of 'contrived to' or 'managed to' in a way that other synonyms cannot. They appreciate how '设法' acts as a pivot in a narrative, shifting the focus from the problem to the active, intellectual pursuit of a solution. Furthermore, C2 learners can engage in metalinguistic discussions about the word, explaining its usage nuances to lower-level learners or debating its subtle differences with native speakers. Their use of '设法' is characterized by absolute precision, effortless integration into complex syntax, and a profound understanding of its cultural and pragmatic resonance within the broader tapestry of the Chinese lexicon.
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Examples
The Chinese word '设法' (shè fǎ) is an essential B2-level vocabulary item that translates to 'to try', 'to devise a way', or 'to find a solution'. Understanding this word requires looking at its individual characters. The first character, '设' (shè), means 'to set up', 'to establish', or 'to devise'. The second character, '法' (fǎ), translates to 'method', 'way', or 'law'. When combined, the literal meaning is 'to devise a method'. In practical usage, it is employed when someone is actively trying to figure out a way to achieve a goal, overcome an obstacle, or solve a complex problem. Unlike the simpler phrase '想办法' (xiǎng bàn fǎ), which is highly colloquial and used in everyday casual speech, '设法' carries a slightly more formal, written, or serious tone. It implies a deliberate, often challenging cognitive or practical effort to navigate a situation. You will frequently encounter this word in news reports, formal business communications, and literature.
Literal Meaning
To devise (设) a method (法).
Pragmatic Usage
Used to express a serious attempt to solve a problem.
Formality Level
Moderate to high formality, suitable for writing and professional contexts.

我们必须 设法 解决这个问题。

他正在 设法 逃脱。

政府正在 设法 降低失业率。

请 设法 联系他。

工程师们 设法 修复了系统。

When people use this word, they are signaling that the task at hand is not necessarily easy. It requires thought, planning, and strategy. For example, if you lost your keys, you might just '想办法' (think of a way) to get inside. But if a company is facing bankruptcy, the board of directors will '设法' (devise a strategy) to save the business. The implication of effort and strategy is what makes this word so powerful in Chinese communication. It elevates your speech from basic conversational Chinese to a more educated, professional register. Furthermore, understanding '设法' opens the door to comprehending many four-character idioms (chengyu) such as '想方设法' (to try every possible method). By mastering this word, you enhance your ability to express complex problem-solving scenarios in Chinese, a critical skill for the B2 CEFR level and beyond.
Using '设法' correctly in a sentence primarily involves understanding its grammatical role as a verb that precedes another verb or verbal phrase. The standard structure is [Subject] + 设法 + [Action Verb / Goal]. This structure translates directly to '[Subject] tries to [Action]' or '[Subject] devises a way to [Action]'. It is crucial to note that '设法' cannot stand alone as the main action without a following goal; it requires a complement to specify what is being attempted. For instance, you cannot simply say '我设法' (I try) and stop there; you must say '我设法解决' (I try to solve).
Structure 1
Subject + 设法 + Verb Phrase
Structure 2
Subject + 正在 + 设法 + Verb Phrase (Continuous attempt)
Structure 3
Subject + 必须 + 设法 + Verb Phrase (Obligation to try)

警方正在 设法 寻找失踪的儿童。

他 设法 筹集到了足够的资金。

我们得 设法 阻止这场灾难。

无论如何，我都会 设法 帮你的。

她 设法 掩盖了真相。

In negative sentences, the negation typically goes before '设法', as in '没有设法' (did not try to). However, it is less common to see '不设法' unless it is a strong refusal to even attempt a solution. More commonly, you will see phrases emphasizing the effort, such as '千方百计地设法' (doing everything possible to try). When writing essays or formal emails, using '设法' demonstrates a high level of proficiency. For example, instead of writing '我们要想办法提高销售额' (We need to think of a way to increase sales), a business professional would write '我们必须设法提升销售业绩' (We must devise a strategy to elevate sales performance). The subtle shift in vocabulary completely changes the tone from casual brainstorming to serious strategic planning. Mastering the sentence patterns associated with '设法' is a significant milestone for any intermediate to advanced Chinese learner.
The context in which you encounter '设法' is a strong indicator of its formal and serious nature. While you might occasionally hear it in everyday conversation, it is predominantly a feature of written Chinese, news broadcasts, formal speeches, professional environments, and literature. In news media, journalists frequently use '设法' to describe the actions of governments, police, or rescue teams. For example, during a natural disaster, a news anchor might report that rescue workers are '设法' reaching the trapped survivors. In business contexts, managers and executives use '设法' during meetings or in emails to discuss strategic problem-solving. It conveys a sense of professional urgency and organized effort.
News Media
Used to describe official efforts, such as police or government actions.
Business Environments
Used in strategic planning, problem-solving, and formal communications.
Literature
Used to describe a character's internal struggle to overcome a major plot obstacle.

救援队正在 设法 进入灾区。

公司高层正在 设法 应对经济危机。

主角 设法 逃离了那座孤岛。

医院正在 设法 增加床位。

科学家们 设法 提取了该病毒的样本。

Furthermore, you will read this word in academic papers or technical manuals where a methodological approach to a problem is being described. It is less common in casual text messages between friends, where '想办法' or '试试看' would be more appropriate. Recognizing the environments where '设法' thrives helps learners understand not just the definition of the word, but its cultural and pragmatic weight. It signals respect for the difficulty of the task and highlights the intellectual or physical effort required to overcome it. Being able to deploy '设法' in the correct environment is a clear indicator of advancing fluency.
When learning '设法', English speakers often make a few predictable errors. The most common mistake is treating '设法' as a noun, confusing it with '办法' (method/solution). Because the English translation 'to find a solution' contains the noun 'solution', learners sometimes say '我有一个好设法' (I have a good try/find a solution), which is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing would be '我有一个好办法' (I have a good method). '设法' is strictly a verb. Another frequent error is using '设法' without a following verb. As mentioned earlier, '设法' needs a complement. You cannot say '遇到困难时，你应该设法' (When you meet difficulties, you should try). You must specify what to try: '遇到困难时，你应该设法克服' (When you meet difficulties, you should try to overcome them).
Mistake 1: Noun Usage
Using '设法' as a noun (e.g., 一个设法). It is strictly a verb.
Mistake 2: Missing Complement
Using '设法' at the end of a sentence without specifying the action being attempted.
Mistake 3: Overuse in Casual Speech
Using it for trivial matters (e.g., 设法打开瓶盖 - trying to open a bottle cap). Use '想办法' or '试着' instead.

Incorrect: 我需要一个 设法。 / Correct: 我需要一个办法。

Incorrect: 他在 设法。 / Correct: 他在设法解决。

Incorrect: 我 设法 喝水。 / Correct: 我试着喝水。(Too trivial for 设法)

Incorrect: 这是我的 设法。 / Correct: 这是我的方法。

Incorrect: 设法它！ / Correct: 设法搞定它！

A third mistake is tonal mismatch. Using '设法' for extremely trivial, everyday tasks sounds unnatural. If you say '我设法打开这瓶水' (I devised a method to open this bottle of water), it sounds overly dramatic unless the bottle was welded shut. For simple physical attempts, '试' (shì) or '尝试' (cháng shì) is much better. '设法' should be reserved for problems that require intellectual effort, strategic planning, or overcoming significant logistical hurdles. Understanding these boundaries prevents learners from sounding unnatural or overly formal in casual settings, while ensuring they use the right vocabulary when writing essays or speaking in a professional capacity.
The Chinese language is rich in synonyms for 'trying' or 'finding a method', and distinguishing '设法' from its peers is a hallmark of advanced proficiency. The most common alternative is '想办法' (xiǎng bàn fǎ). While '想办法' means essentially the same thing ('think of a method'), it is much more colloquial. You use '想办法' with friends and family; you use '设法' in a board meeting. Another similar word is '尝试' (cháng shì), which translates to 'to attempt' or 'to try'. The difference here is that '尝试' focuses on the act of trying itself, often to see if something works or to gain experience. '设法', on the other hand, is goal-oriented; it implies trying specifically to solve a problem or achieve a predetermined outcome.
想办法 (xiǎng bàn fǎ)
More casual and colloquial. Literally 'think of a method'. Used in daily life.
尝试 (cháng shì)
To attempt or try out, often for the experience or to test a hypothesis. Less about problem-solving.
企图 (qǐ tú)
To attempt, but usually with a negative connotation (e.g., attempt a crime).

Casual: 我们得 想办法 弄点吃的。

Formal: 我们必须 设法 解决粮食危机。

Experience: 我想 尝试 一下跳伞。

Negative: 小偷 企图 逃跑。

Idiom: 他 想方设法 接近老板。

There is also '试图' (shì tú), which means 'to attempt'. '试图' is very formal and similar to '设法', but '试图' emphasizes the intention or the attempt itself, regardless of success, while '设法' emphasizes the active formulation of a strategy. For example, '他试图解释' (He attempted to explain) focuses on his action of explaining. '他设法解释' (He devised a way to explain) implies that explaining was difficult, and he had to find a clever way or opportunity to do it. Understanding these subtle distinctions allows learners to choose the exact word that conveys their intended meaning, significantly improving both reading comprehension and expressive accuracy in Mandarin Chinese.
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Examples by Level

1

我没有办法。

I have no way/method. (Focusing on the character 法)

Introduces the character 法 (fǎ) in a simple, common phrase.

2

这是法国。

This is France. (Focusing on the character 法)

Shows 法 used in a country name as a phonetic translation.

3

我不试。

I won't try. (Using the simpler word 试)

Uses 试 (shì), the A1 equivalent for 'try'.

4

我试试看。

Let me try and see.

Reduplication of the verb 试 for a softer tone.

5

他去法国。

He goes to France.

Basic SVO structure reinforcing the character 法.

6

我们没有方法。

We have no method.

Introduces 方法 (fāng fǎ), meaning method.

7

这是什么法？

What law/method is this?

Basic question structure with 法.

8

我不懂语法。

I don't understand grammar.

Introduces 语法 (yǔ fǎ), meaning grammar.

1

我们要想办法。

We need to think of a way. (A2 equivalent of 设法)

Uses 想办法, the colloquial version of 设法.

2

他想办法回家。

He thought of a way to go home.

Subject + 想办法 + Verb phrase.

3

你有什么办法吗？

Do you have any method/solution?

Using 办法 as a noun.

4

我试着开门。

I tried to open the door.

Using 试着 (try to) for physical actions.

5

他没有办法解决。

He has no way to solve it.

Negative structure with 办法.

6

大家一起想办法。

Everyone think of a way together.

Using 一起 (together) before the action.

7

这是一个好办法。

This is a good method.

Adjective modifying the noun 办法.

8

我找办法帮你。

I'll find a way to help you.

Using 找 (look for) with 办法.

1

我们必须设法解决这个问题。

We must try/devise a way to solve this problem.

Standard B1 structure: 必须 + 设法 + Verb Phrase.

2

他设法联系到了他的家人。

He managed to contact his family.

设法 followed by a verb and a resultative complement (到).

3

你要设法按时完成作业。

You need to try to finish the homework on time.

Using 设法 with a time constraint (按时).

4

医生正在设法救那个病人。

The doctors are trying to save that patient.

Using 正在 to show a continuous attempt.

5

我不知道他怎么设法逃走的。

I don't know how he managed to escape.

Using 设法 in a 'how' (怎么) clause.

6

他们想方设法地赚钱。

They tried every possible way to make money.

Introducing the idiom 想方设法.

7

请你设法帮我买一张票。

Please try to help me buy a ticket.

Polite request using 请 + 设法.

8

尽管很难，他还是设法做到了。

Even though it was hard, he still managed to do it.

Concessive clause (尽管...还是...) with 设法.

1

政府正设法平息这场危机。

The government is trying to calm this crisis.

Formal vocabulary (平息危机) paired with 设法.

2

警方设法获取了关键证据。

The police managed to obtain key evidence.

Used in a news/police context.

3

公司高层正设法削减运营成本。

Company executives are trying to cut operational costs.

Business context usage.

4

无论如何，我们都要设法达成协议。

No matter what, we must try to reach an agreement.

Paired with 无论如何 (no matter what).

5

工程师们设法修复了受损的服务器。

The engineers managed to repair the damaged servers.

Technical context usage.

6

她设法在截止日期前提交了报告。

She managed to submit the report before the deadline.

Expressing success in overcoming a time constraint.

7

我们应尽量设法避免冲突升级。

We should try our best to devise a way to avoid the escalation of the conflict.

Using 尽量 (to the best of one's ability) before 设法.

8

为了生存，他们设法适应了恶劣的环境。

To survive, they managed to adapt to the harsh environment.

Used to describe overcoming severe difficulties.

1

管理层正千方百计地设法挽回市场份额。

Management is trying every possible means to recover market share.

Combining idiom 千方百计 with 设法 for emphasis.

2

面对技术封锁，科研团队设法实现了自主研发。

Facing a technolog

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