verb HSK 4
Traditional 放過
to let off · to let go · to spare · to let pass
Meaning
放过 means to deliberately allow someone or something to pass without taking action, often in the sense of forgiving, sparing, or not punishing. It combines 放 (to release) with 过 (to pass), creating the meaning of letting someone or something go free or overlooking their mistakes.
Usage
Commonly used when talking about forgiving someone's mistakes, not pursuing punishment, or letting an opportunity pass. Often appears in negative sentences (不放过) meaning 'won't let go' or 'won't spare'. Can refer to people, opportunities, or mistakes. The tone can range from merciful to regretful depending on context.
Examples
- 01这次我可以放过你，但下次不会了。, .I can let you off this time, but not next time.
- 02他从来不放过任何学习的机会。.He never lets any learning opportunity pass by.
Characters
Common collocations
- 不放过not let off, not spare
- 放过机会to let an opportunity pass
- 放过自己to let oneself off, to forgive oneself
Antonyms
Origin
Literally combines 'release' (放) and 'pass' (过), creating the image of releasing something and allowing it to pass by without interference.