随意

• Pinyin: suí yì
• Hanzi breakdown: 随 = 阝(hill) + 有 + 辶 (walk), to follow; 意 = 音 (sound) + 心 (heart), intention

Meaning

As one pleases; casual; at will. Without restrictions or formality.

Can function as an adjective (casual/informal) or adverb (freely/as one wishes). Used to describe relaxed, unrestricted behavior or atmosphere. Can have positive connotations (relaxed) or slightly negative ones (careless) depending on context.

Examples

1. 这是私人聚会，大家可以穿得随意一点。 This is a private gathering — everyone can dress casually.
2. 请随意坐，不用拘束。 Please sit wherever you like — no need to be formal.
3. 他做事太随意了，经常出错。 He's too casual about his work and often makes mistakes.

Usage Guide

Context: social, casual, work

Tone: relaxed

Do Say

• 请随意。(Please make yourself at home.)
• 穿着随意就好。(Dress casually — that's fine.)

Don't Say

• 随意签合同 — for important matters, 随意 has negative connotations of being careless

Origin & History

Compound of 随 (to follow) + 意 (intention/will), meaning following one's own will.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal