How to Say ‘I didn't do it on purpose.’ in Simplified Chinese
我不是故意的。
wǒ bù shì gù yì de
[waw boo shir goo yee duh]
💬 Usage Tip: [不是故意的] is the natural fixed way to say "I didn't do it on purpose." In Chinese this often works as a whole phrase after many situations, not just one specific action.
Phrase Breakdown
我不是
wǒ bù shì
I am not
Begins a denial or clarification.
我不是这个意思。
That’s not what I mean.
Words in this phrase
我
wǒ
[waw]
I; me
The speaker refers to themself while apologizing or explaining intent.
我不是故意的。
I didn't do it on purpose.
不
bù
[boo]
not
Negates the statement, showing denial of intention.
我不是故意的,请你理解。
I didn't do it on purpose; please understand.
是
shì
[shir]
to be
Part of 不是, meaning 'am not' here.
我不是故意的,真的。
I really didn't do it on purpose.
故意的
gù yì de
on purpose
Says the action was unintentional.
我不是故意的。
I didn’t do it on purpose.
Words in this phrase
故意
gù yì
[goo yee]
intentional; on purpose
Describes whether an action was deliberate.
我不是故意的,只是手机没电了。
I didn't do it on purpose; it's just that my phone died.
的
de
[duh]
descriptive particle
Completes the phrase 故意的, making it sound natural and complete in spoken Chinese.
我不是故意的。
I didn't do it on purpose.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
What Learners Are Saying
“Shanghai business dinners require real Mandarin skills. This app’s scenario-based approach meant I could keep up with clients after just a month of practice.”
Ryan M., 36, Consultant
“Spent three months in Taiwan and this app was my lifeline. The tonal practice with real scenarios helped me sound less like a textbook and more like a person.”
Laura H., 28, Photographer
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer