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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing an unbearable degree with 不堪 (bùkān)

    Degree & Intensity
    Description & Modification

    Structure

    Adjective + 不堪

    Explanation

    The word 不堪 (bùkān) means "unbearable" or "cannot withstand" and is used as a complement to intensify a negative state to an extreme degree. It often follows adjectives to indicate that something has reached an intolerable level, as in 破败不堪 (utterly dilapidated). Place 不堪 after an adjective to express that the condition is beyond acceptable limits.

    Examples

    • 这条路坑坑洼洼，破败不堪。

      Zhè tiáo lù kēngkēngwāwā, pòbài bùkān.

      This road is full of potholes and completely run-down.

    • 他的身体已经疲惫不堪，需要好好休息。

      Tā de shēntǐ yǐjīng píbèi bùkān, xūyào hǎohǎo xiūxi.

      His body is utterly exhausted and needs a good rest.

    • 那间教室脏乱不堪，谁也不想进去。

      Nà jiān jiàoshì zāngluàn bùkān, shéi yě bù xiǎng jìnqù.

      That classroom is so filthy and messy that nobody wants to go in.

    Expressing an unbearable degree with 不堪 (bùkān) | Chinese Grammar