Usage of 不成
The phrase 不成 (bùchéng) is commonly used to express that something is not possible, not allowed, or will not succeed. It often appears in negative statements to indicate failure or prohibition.
Common contexts
- To say a method or plan won't work: “这样做不成” (Doing it this way won't work).
- To express disapproval or that something is unacceptable: “你这样说话不成” (Speaking like that is not acceptable).
- To indicate that a matter cannot be settled or completed as is: “这件事不成” (This matter can't be done).
Collocations and patterns
- 这样做不成: used to reject a proposed action or method.
- 说话不成: used to criticize someone's way of speaking or behavior.
- 事情不成: used to indicate failure or impossibility of a task.
Nuance and register
不成 is somewhat formal and often used in spoken and written Chinese to politely or firmly deny feasibility or acceptability. It can carry a tone of warning or correction.
Common confusion
Do not confuse 不成 with 不行 (bùxíng), which also means "not allowed" or "won't do" but is more colloquial and often stronger in tone. 不成 is softer and more formal.