Definition
机不可失 is a four-character idiom meaning 'must not let the opportunity slip away' — it's a set phrase urging quick action when a favorable chance appears. Often paired with 时不再来 ('opportunity knocks but once'), it's used in contexts like business, career, or any decision-making where hesitation means losing a rare opportunity.
f.e.
must not miss the opportunitycannot afford to let the chance pass
Examples
- 机不可失，，。jī bù kě shī, shí bù zài lái, nǐ yídìng yào zhuāzhù zhè cì jīhuì.Opportunity knocks but once — you must seize this chance.
- 机不可失，。Xiànzài tóuzī zhège xiàngmù zhēn shì jī bù kě shī, cuòguò le jiù méiyǒu le.Investing in this project now is truly a must-seize opportunity — if you miss it, it's gone.
- 机不可失，。Tā míngbai jī bù kě shī, suǒyǐ lìkè qiān le hétong.He understood that he must not lose the opportunity, so he signed the contract immediately.
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