Definition
不得人心 is a fixed four-character expression (like a chengyu) meaning 'to lack popular support'. It is used as a stative verb predicate, often describing a policy, action, or person that fails to win public approval. The literal meaning is 'cannot gain people's hearts'.
s.v.
not enjoy popular supportbe unpopular
Examples
- 不得人心，。Zhège zhèngcè bù dé rén xīn, hěn kuài jiù bèi qǔxiāo le.This policy was unpopular and was soon cancelled.
- 不得人心，。Tā de zuòfǎ bù dé rén xīn, hěn duō rén biǎoshì fǎnduì.His approach is unpopular; many people have expressed opposition.
- 不得人心。Nà wèi zǒngtǒng yīnwèi bù dé rén xīn ér bèipò xiàtái.That president was forced to step down because he lacked popular support.
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