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未必如此
wèi bì rú cǐ
not necessarily so
他看起来很生气，但未必如此。
He looks angry, but not necessarily so.
formal
Used to express that something is not necessarily true or the case, often in contrast to a previous assumption.
你说得对，但未必如此严重。
You're right, but not necessarily so serious.
他虽然说得很有信心，但结果未必如此。
He spoke confidently, but the result may not be so.
Commonly used in spoken and written Chinese to soften a statement or express skepticism.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Softening Statements
Use '未必如此' to express doubt or a counterpoint politely. It is less direct than saying '这不对' (this is wrong).
Gold Rule
Contrast with Assumptions
This phrase is often used to contrast a previous assumption or statement, signaling that the reality may differ.
Word Origin
The phrase is composed of three words: '未必' (not necessarily) and '如此' (so, in this way). '未必' is a negation of certainty, while '如此' refers to the preceding situation or statement.
Usage Notes
This phrase is used to politely disagree or express doubt without being confrontational. It is often used in discussions to introduce a counterpoint or alternative view.
Word Breakdown
未必
not necessarily
phrase如此
so, in this way
phrase汉英词典