承上启下
承上启下 (chéng shàng qǐ xià) literally means “continuing above and opening below” and expresses “serve as a link between preceding and following”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: cheng shang qi xia, cheng shang qi xia,承上启下 meaning, 承上启下 in english
Serve as a link between preceding and following
Pronunciation: chéng shàng qǐ xià
Literal meaning: Continuing above and opening below
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes continuing (承) from above (上) while opening/initiating (启) what's below (下). It originated in literary criticism describing transitional passages that connect previous content to what follows. The phrase emphasizes the crucial role of elements that bridge different levels or sections. It values connectors that maintain continuity while enabling progression. Modern usage commonly describes middle positions that transmit information and direction both upward and downward in hierarchies.
Examples
English: "Middle management serves as the bridge between executives and staff."
Chinese: 中层管理人员起着承上启下的作用。
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 承上启下 mean in English?
承上启下 (chéng shàng qǐ xià) literally translates to “Continuing above and opening below” and is used to express “Serve as a link between preceding and following”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 承上启下 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving serve as a link between preceding and following.
What is the pinyin for 承上启下?
The pinyin pronunciation for 承上启下 is “chéng shàng qǐ xià”.