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算了 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
算了suànlelet it beHSK 6, unknown, 16 strokes, Hard
算了suànlelet it passHSK 6, unknown, 16 strokes, Hard
算了suànleforget about itHSK 6, unknown, 16 strokes, Hard
suànle(suan4le5)suan le T4
  1. 1let it be
  2. 2let it pass
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March 24, 2026

算了suànle(suan4le5)

算了 (suàn le) is an informal expression used to indicate resignation or acceptance of a situation, often suggesting that one should let go of their concerns or frustrations. Commonly used in conversations to express that something is not worth worrying about any longer or to dismiss a topic.

Strokes16DifficultyHard
Cultural Note

In Chinese culture, the phrase reflects a common approach to conflict and stress where individuals may choose to avoid confrontation and be pragmatic about situations, emphasizing harmony and letting go rather than dwelling on problems.

Memory Tip

Think of 算 (suàn) as counting or calculating, and 了 (le) as a completed action. Imagine you are counting your problems but decide to let them go, as if saying, 'I've counted enough; it's time to move on!'

Meanings of 算了

suànle(suan4le5)
1let it be
2let it pass
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About 算了

算了Simplified
16Strokes
—Radical
动词dòngcíverb (v.)Part of Speech
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L6IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRC1

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AI Study Notes for 算了

Usage Notes

It's important to use 算了 in informal settings, as it can come off as dismissive in formal conversations. Common collocations include '算了吧' (let it be) or '算了,别想了' (forget about it). Be cautious with the tone; the phrase may sound indifferent if not delivered with the right emotional context.

HSK Study Tips

Though 算了 is not specifically listed in HSK vocabulary, it is useful for conversational fluency. It connects with other expressions of resignation or indifference, so learners should focus on context and emotional delivery when practicing.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 算了 with more serious expressions of resignation. For example, saying '我算了' (I算了) is incorrect; it should simply be used as a standalone phrase or in context, like '这件事算了' (let this matter go).

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 算了

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Component Characters

算suànto regard as
HSK 414 strokes⺮
View full entry
了le(modal particle intensifying preceding clause)
HSK 12 strokes亅
View full entry

How to say let it be in Chinese

“let it be” in Chinese is算了suànle

算了 (suàn le) is an informal expression used to indicate resignation or acceptance of a situation, often suggesting that one should let go of their concerns or frustrations. Commonly used in conversations to express that something is not worth worrying about any longer or to dismiss a topic.

When to use 算了

It's important to use 算了 in informal settings, as it can come off as dismissive in formal conversations. Common collocations include '算了吧' (let it be) or '算了,别想了' (forget about it). Be cautious with the tone; the phrase may sound indifferent if not delivered with the right emotional context.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse 算了 with more serious expressions of resignation. For example, saying '我算了' (I算了) is incorrect; it should simply be used as a standalone phrase or in context, like '这件事算了' (let this matter go).

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算
了

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Frequently Asked Questions about 算了

Use 算了 when you want to express that you're ready to move on from a situation or to suggest that something isn't worth worrying about.

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