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权衡弊小于利
quánhéng bì xiǎo yú lì
weigh the pros and cons
在决定是否投资这个项目时，我们需要权衡弊小于利的原则。
When deciding whether to invest in this project, we need to weigh the pros and cons.
formal
To evaluate whether the benefits of an action outweigh its drawbacks, especially when the drawbacks are minor compared to the benefits.
虽然这个方案存在一些风险，但权衡弊小于利，我们还是决定实施。
Although this plan has some risks, we decided to implement it after weighing the pros and cons.
在选择供应商时，我们必须权衡弊小于利，确保成本和质量的平衡。
When selecting a supplier, we must weigh the pros and cons to ensure a balance between cost and quality.
Often used in business, policy-making, or strategic decision-making contexts to justify choices despite minor drawbacks.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
This phrase is often used in formal or professional settings. In casual conversation, simpler phrases like '权衡利弊' (weigh the pros and cons) may be more appropriate.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overgeneralization
Do not use this phrase to describe situations where the drawbacks are significant. It specifically implies that the drawbacks are minor compared to the benefits.
Word Origin
The phrase combines '权衡' (quánhéng, meaning 'weigh' or 'balance') and '弊小于利' (bì xiǎo yú lì, meaning 'drawbacks are less than benefits'). '权衡' originates from classical Chinese, where it was used in philosophical and administrative contexts to describe careful evaluation. '弊小于利' is a modern compound expressing the idea of minor drawbacks compared to significant benefits.
Usage Notes
This phrase is typically used in formal or professional contexts, such as business decisions, policy-making, or strategic planning. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing benefits even when there are minor drawbacks. Avoid using it in casual conversation unless discussing serious topics.
Word Breakdown
权衡
to weigh or balance
verb弊
drawbacks or disadvantages
noun小于
less than
verb利
benefits or advantages
noun汉英词典