摆平

• Pinyin: bǎi píng
• Hanzi breakdown: 摆 = 扌(hand) + 罢 (phonetic); 平 = flat/level

Meaning

To settle; to sort out; to handle (a problem or difficult situation).

A colloquial expression meaning to resolve a tricky situation, often implying some negotiation, manipulation, or use of connections. Can also mean to pacify or deal with a difficult person. Has a slightly informal, sometimes street-smart connotation.

Examples

1. 这件事交给我，三天之内保证摆平。 Leave this to me — I guarantee it'll be sorted out within three days.
2. 他在商场混了二十年，什么刁钻的客户都能摆平。 He's been in business for twenty years and can handle any difficult customer.
3. 别担心那些反对的声音，领导自有办法摆平。 Don't worry about the opposition — the boss has ways to deal with them.

Usage Guide

Context: business, everyday

Tone: confident

Do Say

• 这点小事我来摆平。(I'll take care of this small matter.)
• 他有本事把这场纠纷摆平。(He has the ability to settle this dispute.)

Don't Say

• 在正式公文中写'摆平' (Don't use 摆平 in formal documents — use 解决 or 处理 instead)

Origin & History

摆 (to arrange) + 平 (level/even). Literally 'to make level,' figuratively to smooth over difficulties.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal