脱颖而出
脱颖而出 (tuō yǐng ér chū) literally means “tip of awl emerges from bag” and expresses “stand out; distinguish oneself”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance.
Also searched as: tuo ying er chu, tuo ying er chu,脱颖而出 meaning, 脱颖而出 in english
Stand out; distinguish oneself
Pronunciation: tuō yǐng ér chū Literal meaning: Tip of awl emerges from bag
Origin & Usage
This idiom originates from a story where the advisor Mao Sui described talent like an awl in a bag - if truly sharp, its tip (颖) will emerge (脱而出). The phrase describes exceptional ability that becomes visible despite obscurity. It appeared in 'Records of the Grand Historian' praising those whose merit cannot be hidden. Modern usage describes standing out from a group, particularly through demonstrated excellence that distinguishes one from competitors.
Examples
English: "Among hundreds of applicants, she stood out from the crowd."
Chinese: 在数百名申请者中，她脱颖而出。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
一鸣惊人
yī míng jīng rén
Sudden, remarkable success
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百折不挠
bǎi zhé bù náo
Unshakeable despite adversity
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水滴石穿
shuǐ dī shí chuān
Persistence achieves anything
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门庭若市
mén tíng ruò shì
Extremely popular
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天道酬勤
tiān dào chóu qín
Heaven rewards diligence
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破釜沉舟
pò fǔ chén zhōu
Commit with no retreat
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守时如金
shǒu shí rú jīn
Value time preciously
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青出于蓝
qīng chū yú lán
Student surpasses master
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 脱颖而出 mean in English?
脱颖而出 (tuō yǐng ér chū) literally translates to “Tip of awl emerges from bag” and is used to express “Stand out; distinguish oneself”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 脱颖而出 used?
Situation: Among hundreds of applicants, she stood out from the crowd.
What is the pinyin for 脱颖而出?
The pinyin pronunciation for 脱颖而出 is “tuō yǐng ér chū”.