Meaning and Usage
"划不来" is a colloquial expression used to indicate that something is not worth the cost, effort, or trouble involved. It often implies a negative cost-benefit balance, whether in money, time, or energy.
Common Contexts
People use "划不来" when discussing purchases, work, travel, or any situation where the input outweighs the output. It often appears in everyday conversations about value and practicality.
Typical Collocations
- 买划不来 (buying is not worth it)
- 这样做划不来 (doing this is not worth it)
- 省钱划不来 (saving money is not worth it if the effort is too much)
Nuance and Register
This phrase is informal and commonly used in spoken Mandarin. It conveys a practical judgment and sometimes mild dissatisfaction. It is not suitable for formal writing.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "划不来" with "不划算" (not cost-effective). While similar, "划不来" often emphasizes the personal feeling of it not being worth the trouble, whereas "不划算" is more objective about cost-effectiveness.