得了

• Pinyin: dé le
• Hanzi breakdown: 得 = 彳 (step) + 寸 (inch) + 旦; 了 = completion particle

Meaning

That's enough; alright then; come on. An interjection expressing the speaker has heard enough or wants to conclude.

A colloquial expression with multiple uses: dismissing an argument, accepting a situation, or urging someone to stop. Tone can range from resigned acceptance to mild impatience or exasperation.

Examples

1. 得了得了，别吵了，这件事就这么定了。 Alright, alright, stop arguing — this matter is settled.
2. 得了，别找借口了，直接说你不想去。 Come on, stop making excuses — just say you don't want to go.
3. 得了，我不跟你争了，你说什么就是什么吧。 Fine, I won't argue with you anymore — whatever you say.

Usage Guide

Context: conversation, argument, everyday

Tone: dismissive

Do Say

• 得了，我知道了。(Alright, I got it.)
• 得了，别说了。(Okay, stop talking.)

Don't Say

• '得了'是非正式口语——不要在正式场合或对长辈使用，可能显得不礼貌 (得了 is informal slang — don't use it in formal situations or with elders, as it may seem rude)

Origin & History

Colloquial contraction from 得了 (have gotten/obtained), evolved into an interjection meaning 'that's settled' or 'enough.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal