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不得不说 (hù bù dé shuō - have to say)

Grammar & Usage

fixed expression

neutral to slightly informal

How it works

This idiom literally translates to "cannot but say" and is used to introduce an observation or opinion that the speaker feels compelled to express. It often implies that the following statement is an undeniable truth, a noteworthy fact, or a frank assessment, regardless of personal feelings or potential awkwardness. It functions as a discourse marker to emphasize the sincerity or objective nature of what follows.

Sample sentences

不得不说，这个电影真的非常精彩，值得一看。

I have to say, this movie is truly excellent and worth watching.

你做得很好，不得不说，你的努力没有白费。

You did a great job, I have to say, your efforts were not in vain.

不得不说，这个方案有很多问题，需要重新考虑。

It must be said, this plan has many problems and needs to be reconsidered.

Quick facts

usage_nuance:Often used to express a candid opinion, sometimes implying surprise or a grudging acknowledgment. It signals that the speaker is about to state something obvious, impressive, or undeniable.

literal_meaning:cannot but say

Often used with

Mnemonic

Get an AI-generated memory hook for 不得不说 (hù bù dé shuō - have to say) — a vivid scene that locks the word in your brain 🧠

Example

不得不说，这个电影真的非常精彩，值得一看。

I have to say, this movie is truly excellent and worth watching.

你做得很好，不得不说，你的努力没有白费。

You did a great job, I have to say, your efforts were not in vain.