难分难舍

Pronunciation: nán fēn nán shě Literal meaning: Hard to part, hard to leave

Origin & Usage

This idiom describes being hard (难) to part (分) and hard (难) to leave (舍). It depicts the pain of separation when attachment is strong. The doubled structure emphasizes the difficulty of saying goodbye. Modern usage describes the emotional difficulty of parting from loved ones, the reluctance to end a meeting or relationship when feelings run deep.

Examples

English: "The farewell was emotional as neither wanted to say goodbye."

Chinese: 告别时他们难分难舍，都不想说再见。