大相径庭
大相径庭 (dà xiāng jìng tíng) literally means “greatly different like paths and courtyards” and expresses “vastly different; poles apart”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving life philosophy.
Also searched as: da xiang jing ting, da xiang jing ting,大相径庭 meaning, 大相径庭 in english
Vastly different; poles apart
Pronunciation: dà xiāng jìng tíng Literal meaning: Greatly different like paths and courtyards
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes things as different as paths (径) and courtyards (庭) - completely (大相) dissimilar. The phrase comes from 'Zhuangzi,' where it described the vast difference between the Dao and ordinary understanding. Paths lead away while courtyards are enclosed spaces - fundamentally different in nature and direction. Modern usage describes opinions, approaches, or outcomes that differ substantially, emphasizing significant rather than minor differences.
Examples
English: "Their views on the matter are completely different."
Chinese: 他们对这件事的看法大相径庭。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about life philosophy
一波三折
yī bō sān zhé
Many twists and turns
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改邪归正
gǎi xié guī zhèng
Return to righteousness
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好逸恶劳
hào yì wù láo
Love ease, hate work
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物极必反
wù jí bì fǎn
Extremes lead to reversal
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塞翁失马
sài wēng shī mǎ
Misfortune might be a blessing
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近水楼台
jìn shuǐ lóu tái
Advantage from close connections
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夜郎自大
yè láng zì dà
Overestimate oneself
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因果报应
yīn guǒ bào yìng
Actions have consequences
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 大相径庭 mean in English?
大相径庭 (dà xiāng jìng tíng) literally translates to “Greatly different like paths and courtyards” and is used to express “Vastly different; poles apart”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Life Philosophy category.
When is 大相径庭 used?
Situation: Their views on the matter are completely different.
What is the pinyin for 大相径庭?
The pinyin pronunciation for 大相径庭 is “dà xiāng jìng tíng”.