别出心裁
别出心裁 (bié chū xīn cái) literally means “produce different from the heart's cutting” and expresses “showing originality; unconventional”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: bie chu xin cai, bie chu xin cai,别出心裁 meaning, 别出心裁 in english
Showing originality; unconventional
Pronunciation: bié chū xīn cái
Literal meaning: Produce different from the heart's cutting
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes producing (出) something different (别) from one's heart's (心) design or cutting (裁). The character 裁 originally referred to tailoring cloth, suggesting creative design. The phrase celebrates originality and innovation that departs from convention. It appeared in literary criticism praising works that showed creative independence. Modern usage commends innovative thinking, original designs, or unconventional approaches that prove successful precisely because they differ from standard methods.
Examples
English: "Her unconventional approach to the problem impressed everyone."
Chinese: 她别出心裁的方法给大家留下了深刻印象。
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
得心应手
dé xīn yìng shǒu
Work with great ease; have complete mastery
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驾轻就熟
jià qīng jiù shú
Be very familiar with; handle with expertise
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轻车熟路
qīng chē shú lù
Be experienced; find something easy due to familiarity
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游刃有余
yóu rèn yǒu yú
Handle with ease; have skill to spare
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成竹在胸
chéng zhú zài xiōng
Have a well-thought-out plan; be confident
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恰如其分
qià rú qí fèn
Perfectly appropriate; fitting exactly
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恰到好处
qià dào hǎo chù
Just right; perfectly appropriate
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适可而止
shì kě ér zhǐ
Stop at the right point; practice moderation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 别出心裁 mean in English?
别出心裁 (bié chū xīn cái) literally translates to “Produce different from the heart's cutting” and is used to express “Showing originality; unconventional”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 别出心裁 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving showing originality; unconventional.
What is the pinyin for 别出心裁?
The pinyin pronunciation for 别出心裁 is “bié chū xīn cái”.