前途无量
前途无量 (qián tú wú liàng) literally means “boundless path ahead” and expresses “unlimited potential for future success”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: qian tu wu liang, qian tu wu liang,前途无量 meaning, 前途无量 in english
Unlimited potential for future success
Pronunciation: qián tú wú liàng
Literal meaning: Boundless path ahead
Origin & Usage
This encouraging idiom describes a future path (前途) that has no (无) measure or limit (量), originating from Song Dynasty educational philosophy. It first appeared in examiner evaluations of exceptionally promising students who demonstrated unusual potential. During the Ming Dynasty, the phrase gained wider usage in educational contexts as teachers used it to motivate talented pupils. The specific pairing of 'path ahead' with 'measureless' created a powerful image of boundless opportunity. Unlike terms for simple praise, it specifically addresses future potential rather than current achievement. Modern usage describes individuals, projects, or enterprises showing exceptional promise for future development, particularly for young people or early-stage endeavors where current indications suggest remarkable future accomplishment.
When to Use
Situation: The young scientist's innovative research showed tremendous potential
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
匠心独运
jiàng xīn dú yùn
Apply creative genius; show ingenuity
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独具匠心
dú jù jiàng xīn
Show great ingenuity; have original design
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别具一格
bié jù yī gé
Have unique style; be distinctive
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独树一帜
dú shù yī zhì
Be unique; have distinctive style
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独占鳌头
dú zhàn áo tóu
Come first; win top honors
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出神入化
chū shén rù huà
Reach supernatural skill level
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炉火纯青
lú huǒ chún qīng
Reach perfection; master completely
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无懈可击
wú xiè kě jī
Flawless; invulnerable to criticism
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 前途无量 mean in English?
前途无量 (qián tú wú liàng) literally translates to “Boundless path ahead” and is used to express “Unlimited potential for future success”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 前途无量 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving unlimited potential for future success.
What is the pinyin for 前途无量?
The pinyin pronunciation for 前途无量 is “qián tú wú liàng”.