不由自主

Prononciation: bù yóu zì zhǔ Signification littérale: Not by one's own control

Origine et Usage

This idiom describes actions not (不) controlled (由自主) by one's own will. It captures involuntary responses where emotions or instincts override conscious control. The phrase appeared in texts describing overwhelming emotional states. It acknowledges that some responses transcend deliberate choice. Modern usage describes involuntary reactions - laughing, crying, or other behaviors that occur spontaneously without conscious decision.

Exemples

Anglais: "He couldn't help but smile when he saw her."

Chinois: 看到她，他不由自主地笑了。