同病相怜
同病相怜 (tóng bìng xiāng lián) literally means “same illness mutually sympathize” and expresses “sympathize with those sharing similar troubles”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character.
Also searched as: tong bing xiang lian, tong bing xiang lian,同病相怜 meaning, 同病相怜 in english
Sympathize with those sharing similar troubles
Pronunciation: tóng bìng xiāng lián Literal meaning: Same illness mutually sympathize
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes those with the same (同) illness or affliction (病) mutually (相) sympathizing (怜). It captures the special understanding between people who share similar suffering. The phrase originated in Han Dynasty texts describing exiles who found comfort in shared misfortune. Modern usage describes solidarity born from common hardship, where shared experience creates deeper understanding and compassion than outsiders can offer.
Examples
English: "Having experienced similar losses, they truly understood each other."
Chinese: 经历过类似的失去，他们同病相怜。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
Learn more →
一模一样
yī mú yī yàng
Exactly identical
Learn more →
以心换心
yǐ xīn huàn xīn
Treat others as yourself
Learn more →
海纳百川
hǎi nà bǎi chuān
Accept all with open mind
Learn more →
以和为贵
yǐ hé wéi guì
Value harmony above all
Learn more →
同舟共济
tóng zhōu gòng jì
Face challenges together
Learn more →
风雨同舟
fēng yǔ tóng zhōu
Share hardships together
Learn more →
春风化雨
chūn fēng huà yǔ
Gentle, nurturing influence
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 同病相怜 mean in English?
同病相怜 (tóng bìng xiāng lián) literally translates to “Same illness mutually sympathize” and is used to express “Sympathize with those sharing similar troubles”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 同病相怜 used?
Situation: Having experienced similar losses, they truly understood each other.
What is the pinyin for 同病相怜?
The pinyin pronunciation for 同病相怜 is “tóng bìng xiāng lián”.
Curated Lists Featuring 同病相怜
8 Healing Chinese Idioms for Get Well Soon Wishes
Caring Chinese idioms to wish someone a speedy recovery and good health.
8 Chinese Idioms About Health & Wellness (With Meanings)
Beneficial Chinese idioms about health, healing, and physical wellbeing - ancient wisdom for modern wellness.
10 Chinese Idioms for Doctors & Medical Professionals
Meaningful Chinese idioms about healing, medicine, and the noble art of saving lives.