HSK 6
任意
rènyì
arbitrary
Structure
Subject + 任意 + Verb / 任意 + (的) + Noun
How it works
The word '任意' (rènyì) functions as both an adverb and an adjective, meaning 'arbitrarily,' 'at will,' or 'as one pleases.' In a formal or HSK 6 context, it typically implies acting without restraint or according to one's own whims, often disregarding rules or others' opinions.
Examples
我们不能在图书馆内任意大声喧哗。
Wǒmen bùnéng zài túshūguǎn nèi rènyì dàshēng xuānhuá.
We cannot shout loudly as we please inside the library.
你可以从这些颜色中任意选择一种。
Nǐ kěyǐ cóng zhèxiē yánsè zhōng rènyì xuǎnzé yī zhǒng.
You may choose any one of these colors at will.
任何法律都不得由个人任意修改。
Rènhé fǎlǜ dōu bùdé yóu gèrén rènyì xiūgǎi.
No law may be modified arbitrarily by an individual.
Common mistakes
Students often confuse ‘任意’ (rènyì) with ‘随意’ (suíyì). While ‘随意’ is more casual and neutral (e.g., relax, do as you like), ‘任意’ often carries a more formal or negative tone of ignoring restrictions or rules.
Tip
When used before a verb, '任意' often describes an action that should be controlled but isn't. Look for it in legal documents or formal instructions.
More HSK 6 grammar
See 任意 in real Chinese
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