用不着

• Pinyin: yòng bu zháo
• Hanzi breakdown: 用 = to use; 不 = not; 着 = to reach/achieve (neutral tone in this compound)

Meaning

No need to; don't have to; unnecessary. Expresses that something is not required or called for.

A colloquial expression indicating that an action or item is unnecessary. Stronger than 不用 and often carries a dismissive tone. Can be used to decline offers or reject suggestions. The opposite is 用得着 (to need, to require).

Examples

1. 这点小事用不着麻烦你，我自己能处理。 There's no need to trouble you with this small matter — I can handle it myself.
2. 他用不着向任何人解释自己的决定。 He doesn't need to explain his decision to anyone.
3. 天还没黑，用不着开灯。 It's not dark yet — no need to turn on the lights.

Usage Guide

Context: declining, everyday, dismissing

Tone: casual

Do Say

• 用不着担心，一切都会好的。(No need to worry — everything will be fine.)
• 这个问题用不着你来管。(This matter doesn't need you to handle it.)

Don't Say

• 我用不着了吃饭 (Grammar error — say 我用不着吃饭 or 我不用吃饭)

Origin & History

Compound of 用 (to use), 不 (not), and 着 (to reach/achieve). Literally 'cannot reach using' or 'no use for.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal