as it should be by rights (idiom); proper and to be expected as a matter of course
HSK 7, i, rank #8127, Hard
理所当然
lǐsuǒdāngrán
inevitable and right
HSK 7, i, rank #8127, Hard
lǐsuǒdāngrán(li3suo3dang1ran2) T3
1as it should be by rights (idiom); proper and to be expected as a matter of course
2inevitable and right
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March 24, 2026
理所当然(理所當然)lǐsuǒdāngrán(li3suo3dang1ran2)
The idiom 理所当然 (lǐ suǒ dāng rán) describes something that is considered proper and to be expected, as a matter of course. It conveys the idea that certain outcomes or behaviors are inevitable and rightful in a given context, often used to express a sense of entitlement or natural order.
Frequency#8127DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'properness' and social expectations is deeply rooted in Confucian values. 理所当然 often reflects the societal norms that dictate what should be expected in various social roles, such as filial piety or workplace behaviors.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise old tree, rooted in the ground (理), standing tall (所), and it feels completely at ease (当然) in its rightful place. Just like the tree, some things are naturally where they belong, and that's how you remember 'li suo dang ran' means 'as it should be by rights'.
Meanings of 理所当然
lǐsuǒdāngrán(li3suo3dang1ran2)
1as it should be by rights (idiom); proper and to be expected as a matter of course
2inevitable and right
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 理所当然
理所当然Simplified
理所當然Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
成语chéngyǔidiom (id.)Part of Speech
#8127Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 理所当然
Podcast: 理所当然
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AI Study Notes for 理所当然
Quick Contrast
理所必然 (lǐ suǒ bì rán) — use 理所当然 for expected outcomes or behaviors, while 理所必然 emphasizes inevitability.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise old tree, rooted in the ground (理), standing tall (所), and it feels completely at ease (当然) in its rightful place. Just like the tree, some things are naturally where they belong, and that's how you remember 'li suo dang ran' means 'as it should be by rights'.
Usage Notes
This idiom is often used in both formal and informal contexts, but be cautious not to use it when discussing situations that may involve moral ambiguity. Common collocations include using it in contexts of expectations, responsibilities, and rights. Be careful with the tone; ensure that the second and fourth tones are pronounced correctly to avoid confusion.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 term, 理所当然 connects with other advanced vocabulary related to social expectations and rights. Focus on using it in complex sentences to express nuanced opinions about societal norms or personal rights.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'properness' and social expectations is deeply rooted in Confucian values. 理所当然 often reflects the societal norms that dictate what should be expected in various social roles, such as filial piety or workplace behaviors.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misinterpret 理所当然 as just meaning 'obvious'. For example, saying '这件事情理所当然' without context can be misleading; it's better to specify what is expected or rightful in that situation.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 理所当然
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Grammar Patterns of 理所当然
理所当然 functions as a four-character idiom (成语). Treat it as a fixed unit; it usually plays the role of a single adjective, adverb, or noun phrase inside the larger sentence. It carries 2 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.
Exercise 1 of 4
Complete the Sentence
这个提议绝不会____地获得通过。
This proposal is by no means a sure thing.
Example Sentences for 理所当然 (5)
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1
这个提议绝不会理所当然地获得通过。
zhè gè tí yì jué bù huì lǐ suǒ dāng rán dì huò dé tōng guò。
When an accident happens, quite correctly questions are asked.
3
帮助老人下楼被认为是理所当然的行为.
bāng zhù lǎo rén xià lóu bèi rèn wéi shì lǐ suǒ dāng rán de háng wéi.
It is regarded as a natural behavior that a man helps the old down stairs.
4
德拉尔图是位优秀的运动员，赢得比赛也是理所当然。
dé lā ěr tú shì wèi yōu xiù de yùn dòng yuán， ， yíng dé bǐ sài yě shì lǐ suǒ dāng。
Derartu is an outstanding athlete and deserved to win.
5
他们认为他们是理所当然地应受一切应受的苦.
tā mén rèn wéi tā mén shì lǐ suǒ dāng rán dì yīng shòu yī qiē yīng shòu de kǔ.
They account them as suffering deservedly whatever they suffer.
Cultural Notes for 理所当然
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, the concept of 'properness' and social expectations is deeply rooted in Confucian values. 理所当然 often reflects the societal norms that dictate what should be expected in various social roles, such as filial piety or workplace behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions about 理所当然
It's best used in contexts where expectations are clear and justifiable; avoid using it in ambiguous or morally complex scenarios.
Yes, it can be used in both formal and informal settings, but be mindful of the context.
You might say, '在这个家庭中，照顾老人是理所当然的责任。' (Caring for the elderly is a responsibility that is natural and expected in this family.)
