博古通今
博古通今 (bó gǔ tōng jīn) literally means “know past and present” and expresses “wise and learned”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning.
Also searched as: bo gu tong jin, bo gu tong jin,博古通今 meaning, 博古通今 in english
Wise and learned
Pronunciation: bó gǔ tōng jīn Literal meaning: Know past and present
Origin & Usage
The idiom 博古通今 (bó gǔ tōng jīn) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe someone who possesses extensive knowledge spanning both ancient (古, gǔ) and modern times (今, jīn). The phrase emphasizes a deep understanding and mastery of a wide range of subjects across different eras. Its earliest known mention is in the text 《孔子家语》, where it describes the sage Laozi as someone who 'knows the past and understands the present.' The idiom is often used to praise individuals with a comprehensive grasp of history and contemporary knowledge, highlighting their scholarly depth and intellectual breadth. In modern contexts, it is applied to scholars, educators, and anyone recognized for their vast and well-rounded knowledge.
Examples
English: "Her extensive knowledge makes her an expert in both historical and contemporary literature."
Chinese: 她博古通今，精通古今文学。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
融会贯通
róng huì guàn tōng
Master something completely
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学海无涯
xué hǎi wú yá
Learning is limitless
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知行合一
zhī xíng hé yī
Practice what you know
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举一反三
jǔ yī fǎn sān
Learn many from one example
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温故知新
wēn gù zhī xīn
Learn new through studying old
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画龙点睛
huà lóng diǎn jīng
Add crucial finishing touch
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读万卷书
dú wàn juǎn shū
Read extensively for knowledge
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抛砖引玉
pāo zhuān yǐn yù
Offer modest view to inspire better
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 博古通今 mean in English?
博古通今 (bó gǔ tōng jīn) literally translates to “Know past and present” and is used to express “Wise and learned”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 博古通今 used?
Situation: Her extensive knowledge makes her an expert in both historical and contemporary literature.
What is the pinyin for 博古通今?
The pinyin pronunciation for 博古通今 is “bó gǔ tōng jīn”.