洛阳纸贵
洛阳纸贵 (luò yáng zhǐ guì) literally means “luoyang paper expensive” and expresses “extraordinary popularity of intellectual work”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: luo yang zhi gui, luo yang zhi gui,洛阳纸贵 meaning, 洛阳纸贵 in english
Extraordinary popularity of intellectual work
{{pronunciation}}: luò yáng zhǐ guì {{literalMeaning}}: Luoyang paper expensive
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This idiom tells of how paper in Luoyang (洛阳) became expensive (纸贵) due to overwhelming demand for a single work. It originated from the Jin Dynasty, when Zuo Si's 'Biography of Lady Wei' became so popular that paper prices in the capital reportedly soared as everyone sought copies. The geographical reference was significant - Luoyang represented the height of cultural sophistication as an ancient capital. During the Tang period, it became the ultimate metaphor for literary success. Modern usage describes works or ideas generating exceptional public interest, particularly when intellectual contributions transition from elite appreciation to mainstream phenomenon.
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{{situation}}: The professor's groundbreaking research publication created such demand that printing costs soared
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 洛阳纸贵 mean in English?
洛阳纸贵 (luò yáng zhǐ guì) literally translates to “Luoyang paper expensive” and is used to express “Extraordinary popularity of intellectual work”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 洛阳纸贵 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving extraordinary popularity of intellectual work.
What is the pinyin for 洛阳纸贵?
The pinyin pronunciation for 洛阳纸贵 is “luò yáng zhǐ guì”.