Definition
欲罢不能 is a four-character idiom meaning 'unable to stop even though you want to' — it describes a situation where something is so engaging, addictive, or compelling that you can't bring yourself to quit, even if you intend to. The structure is 欲 (want to) + 罢 (stop) + 不能 (cannot). It often appears after verbs like 让人 (makes one) or 令 (causes), as in 让人欲罢不能 ('makes one unable to stop'). Use it for books, games, shows, or any activity that hooks you.
f.e.
unable to stop despite wanting tocan't help but continue (of an irresistible activity or situation)
Examples
- ，欲罢不能。Zhè běn xiǎoshuō qíngjié tài jīngcǎi le, ràng rén yù bà.This novel's plot is so gripping that you can't put it down.
- 欲罢不能，。Tā wán yóuxì wán dé yù bà, lián fàn dōu wàng le chī.He was so hooked on the game that he even forgot to eat.
- ，欲罢不能。Zhè bù diànyǐng de xuánniàn shèjì dé jí hǎo, guānzhòng kàn dé yù bà.The suspense in this movie is brilliantly crafted — the audience couldn't stop watching.
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