舍不得

• Pinyin: shě bu de
• Hanzi breakdown: 舍 = 亼 + 口 + 干 (give up); 不得 = unable to

Meaning

To be reluctant to part with; to hate to see go; to be unwilling to give up.

Expresses emotional attachment that makes parting difficult. Can be used for people, things, money, or opportunities. Conveys that something is too precious or beloved to give up, throw away, or use. The opposite of 舍得.

Examples

1. 这件衣服虽然旧了，但我舍不得扔掉。 Although this piece of clothing is old, I can't bear to throw it away.
2. 孩子要去外地上学，妈妈舍不得让他走。 The child is going away for school, and mom can't bear to let him go.
3. 他舍不得花钱，存了好多年的积蓄。 He's reluctant to spend money and has saved up for many years.

Usage Guide

Context: emotions, everyday, relationships

Tone: sentimental

Do Say

• 我真舍不得离开这个城市。(I really can't bear to leave this city.)
• 她舍不得把猫送人。(She can't bear to give away her cat.)

Don't Say

• 我舍不得这个坏习惯 — 舍不得 implies positive attachment; for bad habits, use 改不掉

Origin & History

Compound of 舍 (abandon/give up) + 不得 (unable to), meaning unable to bring oneself to give up something.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal