Meaning and Usage
"无故" means "without reason" or "without cause." It is used to describe actions or situations that happen without any justified explanation or apparent cause.
Common Contexts
It often appears in contexts where someone does something unexpected or unjustified, such as being late, angry, or dismissed without a clear reason.
Collocations and Patterns
- 无故迟到 (wúgù chídào): to be late without reason
- 无故生气 (wúgù shēngqì): to get angry for no reason
- 无故解雇 (wúgù jiěgù): to dismiss without cause
Usage Notes
"无故" is typically used in formal or written contexts but can appear in spoken language when emphasizing the lack of justification. It contrasts with phrases that indicate a clear reason or cause. Avoid confusing it with "故意" (intentionally), as "无故" emphasizes absence of cause rather than intention.