相辅相成
相辅相成 (xiāng fǔ xiāng chéng) literally means “mutually assist mutually complete” and expresses “complement each other; mutually beneficial”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: xiang fu xiang cheng, xiang fu xiang cheng,相辅相成 meaning, 相辅相成 in english
Complement each other; mutually beneficial
Pronunciation: xiāng fǔ xiāng chéng
Literal meaning: Mutually assist mutually complete
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes things that mutually (相) support (辅) and mutually (相) complete (成) each other. The phrase reflects the Chinese philosophical understanding of complementary opposites and dynamic balance. It emerged from discussions of governance in classical texts, describing how different elements work together for optimal results. Unlike Western notions of independence, this concept emphasizes productive interdependence. Modern usage describes synergistic relationships where elements strengthen each other through interaction.
Examples
English: "Theory and practice complement and enhance each other."
Chinese: 理论与实践相辅相成。
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
得心应手
dé xīn yìng shǒu
Work with great ease; have complete mastery
Learn more →
驾轻就熟
jià qīng jiù shú
Be very familiar with; handle with expertise
Learn more →
轻车熟路
qīng chē shú lù
Be experienced; find something easy due to familiarity
Learn more →
游刃有余
yóu rèn yǒu yú
Handle with ease; have skill to spare
Learn more →
成竹在胸
chéng zhú zài xiōng
Have a well-thought-out plan; be confident
Learn more →
恰如其分
qià rú qí fèn
Perfectly appropriate; fitting exactly
Learn more →
恰到好处
qià dào hǎo chù
Just right; perfectly appropriate
Learn more →
适可而止
shì kě ér zhǐ
Stop at the right point; practice moderation
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 相辅相成 mean in English?
相辅相成 (xiāng fǔ xiāng chéng) literally translates to “Mutually assist mutually complete” and is used to express “Complement each other; mutually beneficial”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 相辅相成 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving complement each other; mutually beneficial.
What is the pinyin for 相辅相成?
The pinyin pronunciation for 相辅相成 is “xiāng fǔ xiāng chéng”.