一句话

• Pinyin: yī jù huà
• Hanzi breakdown: 一 = one; 句 = measure word for sentences; 话 = speech/words

Meaning

In a word; in short; to put it simply. A phrase used to summarize or conclude a point.

Used as a discourse marker to introduce a concise summary or the bottom line of a discussion. Can also literally mean 'one sentence' or 'a word/remark.' Common in both spoken and written Chinese when wanting to cut to the chase.

Examples

1. 一句话，这个项目我们做不了。 In a word, we can't do this project.
2. 别说那么多废话，一句话你到底帮不帮？ Stop all the nonsense — in short, are you going to help or not?
3. 老板一句话就把整个计划否定了。 The boss rejected the entire plan with just one sentence.

Usage Guide

Context: summary, conversation, directness

Tone: direct

Do Say

• 一句话，我不同意。(In a word, I disagree.)
• 用一句话概括一下。(Summarize it in one sentence.)

Don't Say

• 一句话话 (Redundant — 话 is already in the phrase)

Origin & History

Phrase composed of 一 (one), 句 (sentence, measure word for sentences), and 话 (words, speech). Literally 'one sentence.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal