言而有信
言而有信 (yán ér yǒu xìn) literally means “words with trustworthiness” and expresses “to be true to one's word”. 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: yan er you xin, yan er you xin,言而有信 meaning, 言而有信 in english
To be true to one's word
Pronunciation: yán ér yǒu xìn Literal meaning: Words with trustworthiness
Origin & Usage
This idiom comes from 'The Analects of Confucius' (论语), where the sage emphasized that a person's words (言) must be accompanied by trustworthiness (信). In Confucian ethics, keeping one's word was considered a fundamental virtue essential for social harmony. The phrase encapsulates the idea that promises should be honored and speech should be reliable. It remains a core value in Chinese business and personal relationships, where verbal commitments carry significant moral weight.
When to Use
Situation: A leader must always keep their promises to maintain credibility.
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
脚踏实地
jiǎo tà shí dì
Being practical and down-to-earth
Learn more →
南辕北辙
nán yuán běi zhé
Actions contrary to one's goals
Learn more →
势不可挡
shì bù kě dǎng
Unstoppable; irresistible momentum
Learn more →
名副其实
míng fù qí shí
Living up to one's name or reputation
Learn more →
天长地久
tiān cháng dì jiǔ
Everlasting; eternal
Learn more →
望穿秋水
wàng chuān qiū shuǐ
To eagerly await someone or something
Learn more →
急功近利
jí gōng jìn lì
Seek quick success and immediate benefit
Learn more →
讳莫如深
huì mò rú shēn
Maintain absolute silence about sensitive matter
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 言而有信 mean in English?
言而有信 (yán ér yǒu xìn) literally translates to “Words with trustworthiness” and is used to express “To be true to one's word”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 言而有信 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving to be true to one's word.
What is the pinyin for 言而有信?
The pinyin pronunciation for 言而有信 is “yán ér yǒu xìn”.