不好意思

Etymology & Components

The Chinese word 不好意思 (bù hǎo yìsi) is a commonly used phrase that expresses a variety of emotions, including apology, embarrassment, and hesitation. It literally translates to "not good meaning" or "not good intention." The word 不 (bù) means "not," 好 (hǎo) means "good," and 意思 (yìsi) means "meaning" or "intention."The phrase 不好意思 is often used as a polite way to apologize for something, such as making a mistake or causing inconvenience. It can also be used to express embarrassment or shyness, such as when meeting someone new or being in an unfamiliar situation. Additionally, 不好意思 can be used to express hesitation or reluctance, such as when asking for a favor or making a request.The word 不好意思 is a versatile phrase that can be used in a variety of situations. It is an important part of Chinese communication and is essential for HSK learners to understand and use correctly.