How to Say ‘Not expensive’ in Simplified Chinese
不是什么贵重的东西
bù shì shén me guì zhòng de dōng xī
[boo shir shum-muh gway-jong duh dong-shee]
💬 Usage Tip: [不是什么 + noun phrase] is a common way to play something down politely: [不是什么贵重的东西] means "it's nothing valuable / nothing expensive." Swap in other nouns the same way, like [不是什么大问题].
🇨🇳 In China: This kind of line is classic gift-giving politeness in China: you downplay the gift instead of praising it. Even if it cost money, saying it's not valuable helps you sound warm, not showy.
Phrase Breakdown
不是什么
bù shì shén me
not really any; not some special
A modest phrase meaning “it’s nothing special.”
不是什么大事。
It's not a big deal.
Words in this phrase
不
bù
[boo]
not
Used to make the statement negative.
这不是什么贵重的东西。
This is not something valuable.
是
shì
[shir]
is; are
The verb 'to be' in a simple statement.
这不是什么贵重的东西。
This is not something valuable.
什么
shén me
[shum-muh]
what; anything
In this phrase, it helps express 'anything especially'.
这不是什么贵重的东西。
This is not something valuable.
贵重的东西
guì zhòng de dōng xī
valuable thing; precious item
Refers to something expensive or important.
这不是贵重的东西。
This isn't a valuable item.
Words in this phrase
贵重
guì zhòng
[gway-jong]
valuable; expensive
Means valuable in price or importance.
这不是什么贵重的东西。
This is not something valuable.
的
de
[duh]
's; linking particle
Connects the description 贵重 with 东西.
这不是什么贵重的东西。
This is not something valuable.
东西
dōng xī
[dong-shee]
thing; item
A general word for a physical item or object.
这不是什么贵重的东西。
This is not something valuable.
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
Get Full LessonWhat 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