Definition
忙不迭 is an adverb meaning 'in a hurry' or 'hurriedly', but it carries a specific nuance: it describes doing something hastily because you feel compelled or pressured — often out of politeness, eagerness, or to avoid being rude. It's a set phrase (three syllables) used before the verb it modifies, typically in narrative or descriptive contexts. You won't use it in casual everyday speech like 赶紧 or 急忙; it's more literary and vivid.
adv.
hurriedlyin a rush (with a sense of eagerness or obligation)
Examples
- ,忙不迭。Tīng dào yǒu rén qiāo mén, tā máng bù dié qù kāi mén.Hearing someone knock, he hurried to open the door.
- ,忙不迭。Kèrén lái le, zhǔrén máng bù dié dào chá.When the guest arrived, the host hurriedly poured tea.
- ,忙不迭。Lǎoshī yì tíwèn, tā máng bù dié jǔ shǒu huídá.As soon as the teacher asked a question, he hurriedly raised his hand to answer.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.