金石良言
金石良言 (jīn shí liáng yán) literally means “gold and stone good words” and expresses “valuable, lasting advice”. 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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Valuable, lasting advice
Pronunciation: jīn shí liáng yán
Literal meaning: Gold and stone good words
Origin & Usage
Originating in early Chinese metallurgy, this idiom equates valuable advice to gold (金) and stone (石) - materials known for their durability and value. The term good words (良言) gained special significance during the Spring and Autumn period (771-476 BCE) when adviser roles became crucial in statecraft. The metaphor suggests that truly valuable advice, like precious metals and stones, maintains its worth across time. Modern usage describes advice or wisdom that proves particularly enduring and valuable, often emphasizing the rare combination of practicality and moral insight. It frequently appears in contexts of mentorship and professional guidance.
Examples
English: "Her mentor's guidance proved invaluable throughout her career"
Chinese: 她导师的指导在她的职业生涯中证明是无价的
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 金石良言 mean in English?
金石良言 (jīn shí liáng yán) literally translates to “Gold and stone good words” and is used to express “Valuable, lasting advice”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 金石良言 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving valuable, lasting advice.
What is the pinyin for 金石良言?
The pinyin pronunciation for 金石良言 is “jīn shí liáng yán”.