Definition
一反常态 is a four-character idiom (成语) meaning 'to act completely out of character' — someone behaves in a way that sharply contradicts their usual pattern. The literal breakdown is 'one reversal of normal state'. You use it when a person's actions, attitude, or habits suddenly change in a way that surprises others. It often carries a tone of mild puzzlement or concern.
f.e.
to act out of characterto depart from one's usual behavior
Examples
- 一反常态，。Tā jīntiān yī fǎn cháng tài, jūrán zhǔdòng dǎsǎo le fángjiān.He acted out of character today — he actually cleaned the room on his own.
- 一反常态，。Yíxiàng yánsù de jīnglǐ yī fǎn cháng tài, zài huìyì shàng jiǎng le gè xiàohua.The usually serious manager was out of character and told a joke at the meeting.
- ，一反常态。Tā píngshí hěn jiéjiǎn, zhè cì yī fǎn cháng tài mǎi le gè míngpái bāo.She's usually frugal, but this time she acted out of character and bought a designer bag.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.