天长地久
天长地久 (tiān cháng dì jiǔ) literally means “heaven is long, earth is lasting” and expresses “everlasting; eternal”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: tian chang di jiu, tian chang di jiu,天长地久 meaning, 天长地久 in english
Everlasting; eternal
Pronunciation: tiān cháng dì jiǔ Literal meaning: Heaven is long, earth is lasting
Origin & Usage
This idiom derives from Chapter 7 of the Daoist classic 'Tao Te Ching' (道德经) by Laozi: 'Heaven and earth are long-lasting.' The phrase uses the eternal nature of heaven (天) and earth (地) as metaphors for permanence and durability. It gained romantic connotations through Tang Dynasty poetry, particularly Bai Juyi's 'Song of Everlasting Sorrow' where it describes enduring love. The idiom is commonly used in wedding blessings and expressions of lasting relationships, though it can apply to any bond or commitment meant to endure through time.
When to Use
Situation: Their friendship proved to be as enduring as heaven and earth.
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Willingly travel far; make great efforts
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Think about constantly; yearn for
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Yearn day and night
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Be deeply reluctant to leave
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Be inseparable; hate to part
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hǎi kū shí làn
Until the end of time; eternal love
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yī jiàn zhōng qíng
Love at first sight
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 天长地久 mean in English?
天长地久 (tiān cháng dì jiǔ) literally translates to “Heaven is long, earth is lasting” and is used to express “Everlasting; eternal”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 天长地久 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving everlasting; eternal.
What is the pinyin for 天长地久?
The pinyin pronunciation for 天长地久 is “tiān cháng dì jiǔ”.