程门立雪
程门立雪 (chéng mén lì xuě) literally means “cheng door stand snow” and expresses “show profound respect and patience seeking wisdom”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning.
Also searched as: cheng men li xue, cheng men li xue,程门立雪 meaning, 程门立雪 in english
Show profound respect and patience seeking wisdom
Pronunciation: chéng mén lì xuě Literal meaning: Cheng door stand snow
Origin & Usage
A Song Dynasty tale of devotion immortalized student Yang Shi, who stood in snow (立雪) outside philosopher Cheng Yi's door (程门), awaiting his teacher's wisdom. Yuan Dynasty scholars adopted it as the model for ideal student-teacher relationships. The image of a scholar enduring physical discomfort in pursuit of knowledge perfectly captured the Confucian ideal of learning. Modern usage celebrates those who demonstrate profound respect for knowledge through patient dedication.
Examples
English: "The young researcher spent hours outside the professor's office seeking mentorship"
Chinese: 这位年轻研究人员在教授办公室外花费数小时寻求指导
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
融会贯通
róng huì guàn tōng
Master something completely
Learn more →
学海无涯
xué hǎi wú yá
Learning is limitless
Learn more →
知行合一
zhī xíng hé yī
Practice what you know
Learn more →
举一反三
jǔ yī fǎn sān
Learn many from one example
Learn more →
温故知新
wēn gù zhī xīn
Learn new through studying old
Learn more →
画龙点睛
huà lóng diǎn jīng
Add crucial finishing touch
Learn more →
读万卷书
dú wàn juǎn shū
Read extensively for knowledge
Learn more →
抛砖引玉
pāo zhuān yǐn yù
Offer modest view to inspire better
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 程门立雪 mean in English?
程门立雪 (chéng mén lì xuě) literally translates to “Cheng door stand snow” and is used to express “Show profound respect and patience seeking wisdom”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 程门立雪 used?
Situation: The young researcher spent hours outside the professor's office seeking mentorship
What is the pinyin for 程门立雪?
The pinyin pronunciation for 程门立雪 is “chéng mén lì xuě”.
Curated Lists Featuring 程门立雪
8 Chinese Idioms About Winter & Cold
Striking Chinese idioms about winter, snow, and enduring the cold - expressions of resilience in harsh times.
10 Chinese Proverbs About Family & Filial Piety
Heartfelt Chinese proverbs about family bonds, filial piety, and the deep respect for parents and elders in Chinese culture.
10 Chinese Idioms for Teacher Appreciation
Honor educators with these Chinese idioms about teaching, mentorship, and the profound impact of great teachers. Perfect for Teacher's Day and appreciation gifts.