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这样不成
zhèyàng bù chéng
this won't do
这样不成，我们得换个方法。
This won't do; we need to try another approach.
informal
used to express that a situation or action is unacceptable or insufficient
这样不成，我们必须改变策略。
This won't do; we must change our strategy.
这样不成，你得更努力一点。
This won't do; you need to work harder.
Often used in spoken Chinese to express dissatisfaction or the need for improvement. Can be softened with context (e.g., '这样不成吧' for politeness).
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Softening the phrase
Add '吧' (ba) to make it less harsh: '这样不成吧?' (This won't do, right?).
Gold Rule
Contextual appropriateness
Use '这样不成' in informal or semi-formal contexts with peers or subordinates. Avoid with authority figures unless you intend to sound confrontational.
Word Origin
A direct construction combining '这样' (this way) and '不成' (won't work/do). '不成' originates from classical Chinese, where it meant 'cannot succeed' or 'unacceptable.' Modern usage retains the classical sense of rejection or inadequacy.
Usage Notes
Common in everyday speech to express disapproval or the need for change. Often followed by a suggestion or alternative. Can sound abrupt if used with strangers; tone matters.
Word Breakdown
这样
this way / in this manner
phrase不成
won't do / cannot succeed
phrase汉英词典