密不透风
密不透风 (mì bù tòu fēng) literally means “so dense wind cannot penetrate” and expresses “airtight; impenetrable”. 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: mi bu tou feng, mi bu tou feng,密不透风 meaning, 密不透风 in english
Airtight; impenetrable
Pronunciation: mì bù tòu fēng
Literal meaning: So dense wind cannot penetrate
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes being so dense (密) that wind (风) cannot (不) penetrate (透). It depicts impenetrable barriers or extremely tight security. The phrase was used for well-defended positions. Modern usage describes airtight security, complete secrecy, or any arrangement so thorough that nothing can get through.
Examples
English: "Security was so tight that nothing could get through."
Chinese: 安保密不透风。
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Absolutely sure; foolproof
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Inescapable net; dragnet
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Be imperative; must be done
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Proceed steadily; consolidate before advancing
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Give slack before tightening; let go to catch
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Relieve pressure by attacking the source
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Strategic retreat for ultimate victory
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Create a diversion; use misdirection
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 密不透风 mean in English?
密不透风 (mì bù tòu fēng) literally translates to “So dense wind cannot penetrate” and is used to express “Airtight; impenetrable”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 密不透风 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving airtight; impenetrable.
What is the pinyin for 密不透风?
The pinyin pronunciation for 密不透风 is “mì bù tòu fēng”.