口蜜腹剑
口蜜腹剑 (kǒu mì fù jiàn) literally means “mouth honey belly sword” and expresses “hide evil behind sweet words”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving life philosophy. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: kou mi fu jian, kou mi fu jian,口蜜腹剑 meaning, 口蜜腹剑 in english
Hide evil behind sweet words
Pronunciation: kǒu mì fù jiàn
Literal meaning: Mouth honey belly sword
Origin & Usage
This vivid idiom contrasts honey (蜜) in the mouth (口) with swords (剑) in the belly (腹), originating from Tang Dynasty political discourse. It was first recorded in descriptions of court officials who spoke pleasantly while harboring harmful intentions. The imagery draws from the traditional Chinese medical concept of internal organs housing both physical and emotional attributes. The stark contrast between sweet words and hidden malice made it a powerful warning in diplomatic texts. Modern usage describes two-faced behavior in professional or personal relationships, particularly in situations where pleasant superficiality masks hostile intent.
Examples
English: "The consultant's flattering advice concealed his ulterior motives"
Chinese: 顾问奉承的建议掩盖了他的别有用心
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 口蜜腹剑 mean in English?
口蜜腹剑 (kǒu mì fù jiàn) literally translates to “Mouth honey belly sword” and is used to express “Hide evil behind sweet words”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Life Philosophy category.
When is 口蜜腹剑 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving hide evil behind sweet words.
What is the pinyin for 口蜜腹剑?
The pinyin pronunciation for 口蜜腹剑 is “kǒu mì fù jiàn”.