In the vast realm of the Chinese language, idiomatic expressions play an essential role in effective communication. One such expression is 白費 (bái fèi), a term that captures the essence of futility. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of 白費, its grammatical structure, and provide you with various example sentences to deepen your understanding. Whether you are a student of Chinese or an enthusiast, this guide aims to enhance your language skills!
The Meaning of 白費 (bái fèi)
白費 (bái fèi) translates directly to “waste” or “to waste resources” in English. It refers to situations where efforts, time, or resources are expended without achieving a desired outcome or benefit. This can be applied to various contexts, such as wasting one’s time on an unproductive task or exhausting efforts on a futile endeavor. The term encapsulates the frustration of investing energy into something that yields no results.
Contextual Significance of 白費
The idiom often reflects cultural aspects of valuing efficiency and pragmatism in Chinese society. The expression serves as a caution against over-committing to ventures that do not bear fruit, promoting a reflective approach to resource management in both personal and professional contexts.
Grammatical Structure of 白費
Breaking down the structure of 白費 (bái fèi), we find the following components:
- 白 (bái): Meaning “white” or “blank,” in this context it implies “empty,” “without,” or “nothing.”
- 費 (fèi): This character signifies “to spend” or “to waste.”
When combined, 白費 (bái fèi) linguistically conveys the notion of “spending without gain” or “wasting without results.” Understanding these components aids learners in grasping not only the phrase but also its broader usage in various contexts.
Grammatical Categories
In terms of grammatical function, 白費 can be classified as follows:
- Verb Phrase: It primarily functions as a verb phrase to describe actions.
- Noun Phrase: It can also serve as a noun, indicating wasted effort or resources.
Example Sentences Using 白費
To effectively integrate 白費 (bái fèi) into your language repertoire, let’s explore some example sentences that illustrate its use:
1. Context of Time Wastage
他白費了很多時間在這個計畫上。
Tā bái fèi le hěn duō shíjiān zài zhège jìhuà shàng. (He wasted a lot of time on this project.)
2. Context of Efforts Expended
如果你不努力工作,那麼你只是白費力氣。
Rúguǒ nǐ bù nǔlì gōngzuò, nàme nǐ zhǐshì bái fèi lìqì. (If you don’t work hard, then you’re just wasting your energy.)
3. Context of Financial Resources
投資這個項目可能會白費金錢。
Tóuzī zhège xiàngmù kěnéng huì bái fèi jīnqián. (Investing in this project might be a waste of money.)
4. Context of Emotional Investment
她在這段關係中真的感到白費心思。
Tā zài zhè duàn guānxì zhōng zhēn de gǎndào bái fèi xīnsi. (She really feels like she’s wasting her emotions in this relationship.)
Conclusion
In conclusion, 白費 (bái fèi) is a powerful term that resonates with the theme of futility in both personal and professional spheres. By understanding its meaning and grammatical structure, along with the practical examples provided, you can effectively incorporate this phrase into your Chinese language skills. Embrace the richness of the Chinese language, and be mindful of the importance of efficiency and purpose in your daily endeavors!

Sứ mệnh của Chuyên là giúp đỡ và truyền cảm hứng cho các bạn trẻ Việt Nam sang Đài Loan học tập, sinh sống và làm việc. Là cầu nối để lan tỏa giá trị tinh hoa nguồn nhân lực Việt Nam đến với Đài Loan và trên toàn cầu.
CÓ THỂ BẠN QUAN TÂM
Du học Đài Loan
Lao Động Đài Loan
Việc Làm Đài Loan
Đơn Hàng Đài Loan
Visa Đài Loan
Du Lịch Đài Loan
Tiếng Đài Loan
KẾT NỐI VỚI CHUYÊN
Zalo: https://zalo.me/0936126566
Website: www.dailoan.vn