The Chinese idiom 一发不可收拾 (yì fā bù kě shōu shí) is a fascinating expression that perfectly encapsulates the idea of an uncontrollable situation spiraling out of control. In this article, we will delve into its meaning, grammatical structure, and provide practical examples of how it is used in daily language. This guide is aimed at both learners of Chinese and enthusiasts keen to understand the nuances of this expressive language.
What Does 一发不可收拾 Mean?
Literally translating to “once shot, cannot be retrieved,” 一发不可收拾 conveys the sense that a situation has escalated to the point where it is impossible to contain or control it. The phrase is often used to describe scenarios where actions have led to significant consequences that cannot be undone, reflecting a moment of no return.
Grammatical Structure of 一发不可收拾
Breaking down the idiom, we have:
- 一发 (yì fā): “one shot” or “one release,” indicating the initial action taken.
- 不可 (bù kě): “cannot,” which serves to negate the possibility of the following action.
- 收拾 (shōu shí): “to tidy up” or “to manage,” referring to the act of controlling or resolving a situation.
This structure effectively emphasizes the irreversible nature of the action. The combination of these elements creates a powerful image of a scenario that spirals out of control.
Example Sentences Using 一发不可收拾
To better illustrate how 一发不可收拾 is utilized, let’s explore several example sentences:
Example 1
当他决定辞职时,他没有想到这一发不可收拾。
(dāng tā juédìng cízhí shí, tā méiyǒu xiǎngdào zhè yī fā bù kě shōu shí.)
Translation: “When he decided to quit his job, he did not expect it to become uncontrollable.” This sentence shows how a seemingly simple decision can lead to unforeseen consequences.
Example 2
如果没有及时解决问题,它将一发不可收拾。
(rúguǒ méiyǒu jíshí jiějué wèntí, tā jiāng yī fā bù kě shōu shí.)
Translation: “If the problem is not resolved in time, it will spiral out of control.” This suggests the importance of acting promptly to prevent escalation.
Example 3
他的一句玩笑让气氛变得一发不可收拾。
(tā de yī jù wánxiào ràng qìfēn biàn dé yī fā bù kě shōu shí.)
Translation: “His one joke made the atmosphere uncontrollable.” This indicates how a small action can lead to significant and unexpected reactions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 一发不可收拾 (yì fā bù kě shōu shí) is a vivid Chinese idiom that effectively communicates the irreversibility of certain actions and decisions. Understanding its meaning, grammatical structure, and usage in sentences enhances one’s appreciation of the language’s richness and expressiveness. As you continue your journey in learning Chinese, recognizing such idiomatic expressions will bolster your fluency and provide deeper insights into cultural contexts.

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