不算

• Pinyin: bù suàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 不 = not; 算 = 竹 (bamboo) + 目 (eye) + 廾 (hands), originally counting with bamboo sticks

Meaning

Doesn't count as; cannot be considered; not really.

Used to make distinctions or qualifications, indicating that something doesn't quite meet a certain standard or category. Common in discussions about whether something qualifies as something else.

Examples

1. 他的中文虽然不流利，但也不算太差。 His Chinese isn't fluent, but it's not too bad either.
2. 这点小雨不算什么，比赛照常进行。 This light rain is nothing — the match will proceed as scheduled.
3. 就这几个菜，不算丰盛，但绝对够吃。 Just these few dishes — not exactly lavish, but definitely enough to eat.

Usage Guide

Context: qualification, comparison, everyday

Tone: casual

Do Say

• 这个价格不算贵。(This price isn't considered expensive.)
• 迟到五分钟不算什么大问题。(Being five minutes late isn't a big deal.)

Don't Say

• 在正式评估时说：这不算合格。(In formal evaluations, use 不能算作 or 不符合标准 for clearer criteria)

Origin & History

不 (not) + 算 (to count, consider). Doesn't count or qualify as.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal