HSK 6
大不了……
dàbùliǎo……
if the worst comes
Structure
Situation + (就) + 大不了 + Resulting Action/Outcome
How it works
The word '大不了' is used to indicate that even in the worst-case scenario, the consequences are acceptable or manageable. It expresses a sense of optimism, indifference, or a 'worst-case scenario' solution, often used to comfort someone or show determination.
Examples
这份工作丢了就丢了，大不了再找一份。
Zhè fèn gōngzuò diū le jiù diū le, dàbùliǎo zài zhǎo yī fèn.
If I lose this job, so be it; at worst, I'll just find another one.
你别担心，大不了我陪你一起去面对。
Nǐ bié dānxīn, dàbùliǎo wǒ péi nǐ yīqǐ qù miànduì.
Don't worry; if the worst comes to the worst, I'll go and face it with you.
既然他不讲道理，大不了我们以后不跟他合作了。
Jìrán tā bù jiǎng dàolǐ, dàbùliǎo wǒmen yǐhòu bù gēn tā hézuò le.
Since he is being unreasonable, the worst that can happen is we stop cooperating with him.
Common mistakes
Do not confuse this usage with '没什么大不了的' (it's no big deal). While related, '大不了' in this context always introduces a specific consequence or alternative action.
Tip
Think of '大不了' as a way to minimize the seriousness of a problem by providing a backup plan or showing that the outcome isn't fatal.
More HSK 6 grammar
See 大不了…… in real Chinese
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