道貌岸然
道貌岸然 (dào mào àn rán) literally means “solemn and dignified appearance” and expresses “hypocritical demeanor”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character.
Also searched as: dao mao an ran, dao mao an ran,道貌岸然 meaning, 道貌岸然 in english
Hypocritical demeanor
Pronunciation: dào mào àn rán Literal meaning: Solemn and dignified appearance
Origin & Usage
岸 is a river bank, and 岸然 means towering, standing up sheer — so the phrase describes a bearing (道貌) that is imposing and morally elevated. It was once neutral, even admiring. It is now almost purely sarcastic, and the sarcasm is aimed precisely at the visibility of the virtue: the person is not merely a hypocrite but a conspicuous one, wearing the manner so plainly that it invites doubt. Chinese has no ordinary use for it as praise any more, and learners should treat it as a hostile word.
Examples
English: "He always acts pious, but his true nature is quite different."
Chinese: 他总是道貌岸然，但他的真实本性却大相径庭。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
以貌取人
yǐ mào qǔ rén
Superficial judgment
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隔岸观火
gé àn guān huǒ
Observe troubles from safe distance
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回头是岸
huí tóu shì àn
Repent and be saved
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胡说八道
hú shuō bā dào
Talk complete nonsense without any foundation
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志同道合
zhì tóng dào hé
Share the same goals and values
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戛然而止
jiá rán ér zhǐ
Come to an abrupt halt
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泰然自若
tài rán zì ruò
Maintain perfect composure under pressure
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安然无恙
ān rán wú yàng
Completely safe and unharmed through danger
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 道貌岸然 mean in English?
道貌岸然 (dào mào àn rán) literally translates to “Solemn and dignified appearance” and is used to express “Hypocritical demeanor”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 道貌岸然 used?
Situation: He always acts pious, but his true nature is quite different.
What is the pinyin for 道貌岸然?
The pinyin pronunciation for 道貌岸然 is “dào mào àn rán”.