The word "不妨" is formed by combining the negation "不" (bù), meaning "not", with the verb "妨" (fáng), which means "to hinder" or "to be detrimental". Literally, the compound suggests "not a hindrance" or "not harmful". Over time, this literal sense evolved into a fixed adverb conveying the figurative meaning of "there is no harm in" or "might as well", used to suggest that an action is advisable or acceptable because it carries no negative consequence, thereby softening a suggestion or recommendation. For example, in "不妨试试" (bùfáng shìshi), it means "you might as well give it a try".