饮水思源
饮水思源 (yǐn shuǐ sī yuán) literally means “drink water think source” and expresses “remember your roots”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: yin shui si yuan, yin shui si yuan,饮水思源 meaning, 饮水思源 in english
Remember your roots
Pronunciation: yǐn shuǐ sī yuán
Literal meaning: Drink water think source
Origin & Usage
This reflection on gratitude emerged during the Tang Dynasty, using the everyday act of drinking (饮) water (水) to remind one to think (思) of its source (源). The idiom gained prominence through Buddhist texts that emphasized mindful appreciation of life's foundations. It was particularly meaningful in agricultural communities where water sources determined settlement patterns and community bonds. In imperial China, it became associated with remembering one's teachers and benefactors. Modern usage extends beyond literal gratitude for resources to encompass appreciation for opportunities, education, and support systems. It serves as a reminder that success is rarely purely individual, encouraging acknowledgment of those who contributed to one's achievements.
Examples
English: "After achieving success, she created a scholarship at her old school"
Chinese: 在成功之后，她在母校设立了奖学金
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Related Chinese Idioms
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Self-righteous; opinionated
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cū xīn dà yì
Careless; negligent
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名副其实
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Living up to one's name or reputation
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To be true to one's word
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Everlasting; eternal
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To eagerly await someone or something
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jí gōng jìn lì
Seek quick success and immediate benefit
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Maintain absolute silence about sensitive matter
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 饮水思源 mean in English?
饮水思源 (yǐn shuǐ sī yuán) literally translates to “Drink water think source” and is used to express “Remember your roots”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 饮水思源 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving remember your roots.
What is the pinyin for 饮水思源?
The pinyin pronunciation for 饮水思源 is “yǐn shuǐ sī yuán”.