唇齿相依
唇齿相依 (chún chǐ xiāng yī) literally means “lips and teeth depend” and expresses “mutual reliance”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character.
Also searched as: chun chi xiang yi, chun chi xiang yi,唇齿相依 meaning, 唇齿相依 in english
Mutual reliance
Pronunciation: chún chǐ xiāng yī Literal meaning: Lips and teeth depend
Origin & Usage
The idiom 唇齿相依 (chún chǐ xiāng yī) originates from the historical context of the Spring and Autumn period, as recorded in the ancient text 《左传》 (Zuǒ Zhuàn). The story involves the state of Jin seeking passage through the state of Yu to attack the state of Guo. A wise advisor, Gong Zhiqi, warned that if Guo fell, Yu would be next, as they were closely linked like lips and teeth. This idiom was later used during the Three Kingdoms period when the states of Wu and Shu formed a strategic alliance, described as being as interdependent as lips and teeth. The characters 唇 (chún, lips) and 齿 (chǐ, teeth) symbolize mutual reliance. In modern usage, it describes relationships or situations where parties are closely connected and dependent on each other.
Examples
English: "In a close friendship, their support for each other is essential for their well-being."
Chinese: 在亲密的友谊中，他们彼此的支持对彼此的幸福至关重要。
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Gentle, nurturing influence
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 唇齿相依 mean in English?
唇齿相依 (chún chǐ xiāng yī) literally translates to “Lips and teeth depend” and is used to express “Mutual reliance”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 唇齿相依 used?
Situation: In a close friendship, their support for each other is essential for their well-being.
What is the pinyin for 唇齿相依?
The pinyin pronunciation for 唇齿相依 is “chún chǐ xiāng yī”.