How do you pronounce 入乡随俗?

入乡随俗 is pronounced as "rù xiāng suí sú" in Mandarin Chinese.

入乡随俗

Q: What does 入乡随俗 mean?

入乡随俗 (rù xiāng suí sú) literally means "Enter village follow customs" and metaphorically means "Follow local customs". It belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category of Chinese idioms.

Q: When is 入乡随俗 used?

入乡随俗 is used when She adapted to local customs when working abroad.

入乡随俗 (rù xiāng suí sú) literally means “enter village follow customs” and expresses “follow local customs”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning.

Also searched as: ru xiang sui su, ru xiang sui su,入乡随俗 meaning, 入乡随俗 in english

Follow local customs

Pronunciation: rù xiāng suí sú Literal meaning: Enter village follow customs

Origin & Usage

Dating back to the Warring States period, this idiom advises those who enter (入) a village (乡) to follow (随) local customs (俗). Historical accounts tell of diplomatic missions that succeeded or failed based on their adherence to this principle. The concept gained particular significance during the Tang Dynasty's cosmopolitan period, when merchants and diplomats traversed the Silk Road. Beyond simple advice for travelers, it reflects deeper philosophical insights about cultural respect and adaptability. Modern applications range from international business etiquette to immigrant experiences, advocating for cultural intelligence without losing one's identity. The idiom captures the delicate balance between respecting local norms and maintaining authentic self-expression.

Examples

English: "She adapted to local customs when working abroad"

Chinese: 她在国外工作时入乡随俗

Related Chinese Idioms

Similar idioms about wisdom & learning

融会贯通

róng huì guàn tōng

Master something completely

Learn more →

学海无涯

xué hǎi wú yá

Learning is limitless

Learn more →

知行合一

zhī xíng hé yī

Practice what you know

Learn more →

举一反三

jǔ yī fǎn sān

Learn many from one example

Learn more →

温故知新

wēn gù zhī xīn

Learn new through studying old

Learn more →

画龙点睛

huà lóng diǎn jīng

Add crucial finishing touch

Learn more →

读万卷书

dú wàn juǎn shū

Read extensively for knowledge

Learn more →

抛砖引玉

pāo zhuān yǐn yù

Offer modest view to inspire better

Learn more →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 入乡随俗 mean in English?

入乡随俗 (rù xiāng suí sú) literally translates to “Enter village follow customs” and is used to express “Follow local customs”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.