坦坦荡荡

Pronunciation: tǎn tǎn dàng dàng Literal meaning: Open and broad-minded

Origin & Usage

This idiom describes being open (坦坦) and broad (荡荡). The doubled characters emphasize the degree of openness and freedom from anxiety. It depicts someone who has nothing to hide and faces life with clear conscience. Modern usage describes people who live honestly and openly, whose transparency allows them to face anything without guilt or fear.

Examples

English: "He lived his life with nothing to hide or regret."

Chinese: 他活得坦坦荡荡，无愧于心。