名垂青史

Pronunciation: míng chuí qīng shǐ Literal meaning: Name recorded in history

Origin & Usage

Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 名垂青史 (míng chuí qīng shǐ) conveys the idea of one's name and deeds being eternally recorded in history. The phrase is composed of four characters: 名 (míng), meaning 'name'; 垂 (chuí), meaning 'to pass down'; 青 (qīng), referring to 'green' or 'everlasting'; and 史 (shǐ), meaning 'history'. This idiom emphasizes the immortalization of one's achievements in historical records, suggesting that their legacy will endure through time. In modern usage, it is often employed to praise individuals whose contributions have had a lasting impact, ensuring their remembrance in the annals of history.

Examples

English: "His contributions to science ensured that his name would be remembered for generations."

Chinese: 他的科学贡献使得名垂青史，世世代代都有人铭记。