Meaning
This is a direct command telling someone not to speak. It combines the negative imperative 别 (don't) with 说话 (to speak/talk). It's a straightforward way to ask for silence, commonly used in situations requiring quiet or when you want to stop someone from speaking.
Usage
This phrase is quite direct and can sound somewhat blunt or authoritative. It's commonly used by parents to children, teachers to students, or in situations where silence is necessary (like in a library or during a performance). Among equals or in polite contexts, people might soften it with 请 (please) or use indirect expressions. It's also used dramatically in movies and arguments.
Examples
- 01电影开始了，别说话！, !The movie has started, don't talk!
- 02上课的时候别说话，要认真听讲。, .Don't talk during class; you should listen carefully.
Characters
Common collocations
- 请别说话please don't talk (polite)
- 别说话了stop talking (now)
- 你别说话you, don't talk
Antonyms
Origin
别 originally meant 'to separate' and evolved into a negative imperative meaning 'don't.' 说话 is a compound meaning 'to speak,' literally 'to say words.'