三心二意

sān xīn èr yì
idiom★Intermediate💡 to be indecisive or distracted◆idiom
◆ What It Really Means
To be indecisive, distracted, or lacking focus; to have divided attention or intentions.
Literal Meaning
Three hearts and two intentions
Literal Breakdown
三心three hearts+二意two intentions
◇ Mental Image
The image of having multiple hearts and intentions suggests a state of confusion and lack of focus.
◈ When to Use
A teacher scolds a student for being distracted during a lesson, saying '你总是三心二意，怎么能学好呢？' (You are always distracted, how can you learn well?).
◉ Cultural Note
This idiom reflects the Chinese cultural value of focus and commitment, often used to criticize a lack of these qualities.
informal

To be indecisive, distracted, or lacking focus; to have divided attention or intentions.

她学习时总是三心二意，所以成绩不理想。

She is always distracted while studying, so her grades are not good.

做重要的决定时，不要三心二意。

When making important decisions, don't be indecisive.

💡

This idiom is often used to describe someone who is easily distracted or lacks commitment.

Related Phrases

心不在焉idiom
to be absent-minded
心猿意马idiom
to have a restless mind

💡Pro Tip

Usage Tip

This idiom is often used to describe someone who is easily distracted or lacks commitment in their work or studies.

⚡Gold Rule

Key Rule

Use this idiom to describe a lack of focus or indecisiveness, not just physical distraction.

📖Word Origin

The idiom combines numbers to describe a state of divided attention: 'three hearts' and 'two intentions' symbolize indecisiveness and lack of focus.

📝Usage Notes

This idiom is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to criticize someone's lack of focus or commitment.

Word Breakdown

三心
three hearts
root
+
二意
two intentions
root
汉英词典