可想而知

• Pinyin: kě xiǎng ér zhī
• Hanzi breakdown: 可 = can; 想 = 相 + 心 (heart); 而 = and; 知 = 矢 (arrow) + 口

Meaning

It goes without saying; one can imagine; it's easy to see. Indicates that a conclusion is obvious and can be inferred.

A transitional phrase used to introduce an obvious conclusion based on given circumstances. Often used when the outcome or consequence is so predictable that it doesn't need to be stated explicitly. Common in both spoken and written Chinese.

Examples

1. 他从来不运动，身体状况可想而知。 He never exercises — his health condition is easy to imagine.
2. 在那种恶劣环境下工作，其艰辛程度可想而知。 Working in such harsh conditions — the hardship involved goes without saying.
3. 一个人如果连基本礼貌都不懂，他的人际关系可想而知。 If someone doesn't even understand basic manners, their interpersonal relationships are predictably poor.

Usage Guide

Context: inference, logical conclusion, commentary

Tone: matter-of-fact

Do Say

• 结果可想而知。(The outcome is easy to imagine.)
• 没有准备就去考试，结果可想而知。(Taking an exam without preparation — the result goes without saying.)

Don't Say

• 这道菜的味道可想而知。(Avoid when the conclusion isn't actually obvious — 可想而知 implies the inference is clear to everyone)

Origin & History

Literary phrase combining 可 (can) + 想 (imagine) + 而知 (and know). Means 'can be imagined and known.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal