入乡随俗
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. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
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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
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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.
When is 入乡随俗 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving follow local customs.
What is the pinyin for 入乡随俗?
The pinyin pronunciation for 入乡随俗 is “rù xiāng suí sú”.