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无可厚非 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
无可厚非wúkěhòufēiThe idiom 无可厚非 (wu2 ke3 hou4 fei1) translates to 'there's no need for criticism' or 'it can't be helped.' It is often used to express that a certain behavior or decision is understandable and justifiable, even if it may not be ideal. This expression carries a connotation of acceptance or tolerance towards someone's actions.HSK 7, 26 strokes, rank #25575, Very Hard
wúkěhòufēi(wu2ke3hou4fei1)wu ke hou fei T2
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March 24, 2026

无可厚非(無可厚非)wúkěhòufēi(wu2ke3hou4fei1)

The idiom 无可厚非 (wu2 ke3 hou4 fei1) translates to 'there's no need for criticism' or 'it can't be helped.' It is often used to express that a certain behavior or decision is understandable and justifiable, even if it may not be ideal. This expression carries a connotation of acceptance or tolerance towards someone's actions.

Strokes26Frequency#25575DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

In Chinese culture, the concept of understanding and tolerance is deeply embedded, often reflecting the value placed on social harmony. Using 无可厚非 shows a willingness to accept imperfections in others, which is a desirable trait in interpersonal relationships.

Memory tip

Imagine a situation where a friend makes a mistake but you think, 'No big deal, I understand why they did that!' Visualize a thick layer of understanding (厚) protecting them from criticism (非). The pronunciation 'wu ke hou fei' sounds like 'who cares' when you realize it's justifiable.

About 无可厚非

无可厚非Simplified
無可厚非Traditional
26Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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AI study notes for 无可厚非

Usage Notes

This idiom is often used in informal conversations when discussing decisions that are questionable but reasonable under the circumstances. Learners should be careful not to use it in overly formal contexts, as it may sound out of place. A common mistake is to confuse it with similar idioms; ensure you understand the nuances between them.

HSK Study Tips

While this idiom may not appear in the HSK vocabulary lists, it is beneficial for advanced learners to understand idiomatic expressions and their contextual meanings. Focus on how idioms like this one can enhance your conversational skills and comprehension in more nuanced discussions.

Common Mistakes

Learners often mistakenly use this idiom to express outright agreement when it actually indicates a more nuanced acceptance. For example, saying '我完全同意这个决定,无可厚非' (I completely agree with this decision, there's no need for criticism) is incorrect; a better phrasing would clarify understanding without implying full agreement.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 无可厚非

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Idiom spotlight: 无可厚非

Chengyu origin story
Literal meaning:not able to thick blame

Component characters

无wú-less
HSK 44 strokes无
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可kěcan
HSK 35 strokes口
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厚hòuthick
HSK 49 strokes厂
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非fēito not be
HSK 78 strokes非
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How to say 无可厚非 in Chinese

This in Chinese is无可厚非wúkěhòufēi

The idiom 无可厚非 (wu2 ke3 hou4 fei1) translates to 'there's no need for criticism' or 'it can't be helped.' It is often used to express that a certain behavior or decision is understandable and justifiable, even if it may not be ideal. This expression carries a connotation of acceptance or tolerance towards someone's actions.

When to use 无可厚非

This idiom is often used in informal conversations when discussing decisions that are questionable but reasonable under the circumstances. Learners should be careful not to use it in overly formal contexts, as it may sound out of place. A common mistake is to confuse it with similar idioms; ensure you understand the nuances between them.

What learners get wrong

Learners often mistakenly use this idiom to express outright agreement when it actually indicates a more nuanced acceptance. For example, saying '我完全同意这个决定,无可厚非' (I completely agree with this decision, there's no need for criticism) is incorrect; a better phrasing would clarify understanding without implying full agreement.

Write 无可厚非

无
可
厚
非

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Frequently asked questions about 无可厚非

It's generally more suitable for informal conversations. In formal writing, consider using more neutral phrases.

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