HSK 5 · VERSION 2.0#50
Making Judgments with “suàn”
算
How it works
算 (suàn) can mean “to count as,” “to be considered,” or “can be regarded as.” It is used when making a judgment or classifying something.
It can also be used to soften a statement, meaning something like “well, I guess...” or “you could say...”
The pattern
Subject + 算 (suàn) + Predicate / Category
Example sentences
从目前的情况来看，这次合作应该还算顺利。
Judging from the current situation, this cooperation can still be considered fairly smooth.
以他的经验和能力来说，这样的表现已经算不错了。
Considering his experience and ability, this kind of performance can already be considered quite good.
你这么说也算有道理，但问题没你想得那么简单。
What you say does make some sense, but the problem is not as simple as you think.
Key point
算 (suàn) often leaves some room in judgment. It is usually less absolute than saying something directly is or is not so.