Definition
为所欲为 is a four-character idiom meaning 'to do whatever one wants without restraint.' It almost always carries a negative connotation — someone acting selfishly, recklessly, or without regard for rules or others. The structure is 为 + 所 + 欲 + 为 (literally 'do what one desires to do'). You'll often see it in criticism or warnings about people in power: 不能让他∼ (you can't let him act as he pleases).
f.e.
to do as one pleases (with negative connotation)to act without restraint
Examples
- ，为所欲为。Tā zhàng zhe jiālǐ de guānxì, zài dānwèi lǐ wéi suǒ yù wéi.He relies on family connections and does whatever he wants at work.
- 为所欲为。Fǎlǜ bù yǔnxǔ rènhé rén wéi suǒ yù wéi.The law does not allow anyone to act with impunity.
- ，为所欲为。Zhège lǐngdǎo zhuānhèng báhù, wéi suǒ yù wéi guàn le.This boss is arrogant and tyrannical, used to doing whatever he wants.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.