名列前茅
名列前茅 (míng liè qián máo) literally means “name listed among the front reeds” and expresses “rank among the best; be at the top”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance.
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Rank among the best; be at the top
Pronunciation: míng liè qián máo Literal meaning: Name listed among the front reeds
Origin & Usage
This idiom originates from ancient Chinese military practice where commanders at the front of an army carried 'mao' (茅), a type of reed grass, as signal markers. To have one's name (名) listed (列) among the front reeds (前茅) meant being at the vanguard. The phrase evolved to describe being among the top performers in any ranking or competition. Modern usage commonly describes academic achievement, sports rankings, or business performance that places someone among the leaders.
Examples
English: "She consistently ranked at the top of her class."
Chinese: 她的成绩一直名列前茅。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 名列前茅 mean in English?
名列前茅 (míng liè qián máo) literally translates to “Name listed among the front reeds” and is used to express “Rank among the best; be at the top”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 名列前茅 used?
Situation: She consistently ranked at the top of her class.
What is the pinyin for 名列前茅?
The pinyin pronunciation for 名列前茅 is “míng liè qián máo”.