算了
suànle
Forget it
算了 (suànle) means "forget it" or "never mind." It's used to express giving up on something, dropping a topic, or letting a matter go, ranging in tone from mild resignation to annoyance.
What does 算了 (suànle) mean?
算了 (suànle) means “forget it” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “count it done.”
When to use it
Can be neutral to informal. The tone of voice is crucial; it can convey mild resignation ("never mind") or strong impatience and annoyance ("just forget it!").
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “SWAN-luh.” The first character has a falling tone, and the second is a light, neutral tone.
Other ways to say it
- 没关系méi guānxiit's okay, never mind (more polite)
- 别提了bié tíledon't mention it, let's not talk about it
- 随它去吧suí tā qù balet it be, let it go
Examples
算了，我们还是别去了。
suànle, wǒmen háishì bié qùle.
Forget it, let's just not go.
我不想再讨论了，算了。
wǒ bù xiǎng zài tǎolùnle, suànle.
I don't want to discuss it anymore, forget it.
算了，就当我没说过。
suànle, jiù dāng wǒ méi shuōguo.
Forget it, just pretend I didn't say anything.
Pro tip: The meaning of 算了 heavily depends on your tone. A soft tone can mean "never mind," while a sharp tone can mean "just drop it!"
Related phrases
看情况 · It depends没办法 · Nothing can be done好主意 · Good idea
Want to speak Chinese for real?
Start a free lesson with a native teacher →
Start a free lesson with a native teacher →