如鱼得水
如鱼得水 (rú yú dé shuǐ) literally means “fish finds water” and expresses “in perfect element”. 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: ru yu de shui, ru yu de shui,如鱼得水 meaning, 如鱼得水 in english
In perfect element
Pronunciation: rú yú dé shuǐ
Literal meaning: Fish finds water
Origin & Usage
This idiom captures the harmony between fish (鱼) and water (水), drawing from Daoist observations of natural affinities. In ancient texts, particularly those of Zhuangzi, the fish swimming effortlessly through water epitomized the ideal state of being perfectly suited to one's environment. The metaphor gained prominence during the Tang Dynasty when poets used it to describe the relationship between talented officials and enlightened rulers. Modern usage extends beyond professional contexts to any situation where someone thrives naturally in their element – whether an artist in their studio, an athlete in their sport, or a teacher in their classroom. It speaks to the profound satisfaction found when one's talents align perfectly with their circumstances.
Examples
English: "The experienced teacher in her new classroom was like a fish in water"
Chinese: 有经验的老师在新教室里如鱼得水
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
匠心独运
jiàng xīn dú yùn
Apply creative genius; show ingenuity
Learn more →
独具匠心
dú jù jiàng xīn
Show great ingenuity; have original design
Learn more →
别具一格
bié jù yī gé
Have unique style; be distinctive
Learn more →
独树一帜
dú shù yī zhì
Be unique; have distinctive style
Learn more →
独占鳌头
dú zhàn áo tóu
Come first; win top honors
Learn more →
出神入化
chū shén rù huà
Reach supernatural skill level
Learn more →
炉火纯青
lú huǒ chún qīng
Reach perfection; master completely
Learn more →
轻车熟路
qīng chē shú lù
Be experienced; find something easy due to familiarity
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 如鱼得水 mean in English?
如鱼得水 (rú yú dé shuǐ) literally translates to “Fish finds water” and is used to express “In perfect element”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 如鱼得水 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving in perfect element.
What is the pinyin for 如鱼得水?
The pinyin pronunciation for 如鱼得水 is “rú yú dé shuǐ”.