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.
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。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
融会贯通
róng huì guàn tōng
Master something completely
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学海无涯
xué hǎi wú yá
Learning is limitless
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知行合一
zhī xíng hé yī
Practice what you know
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举一反三
jǔ yī fǎn sān
Learn many from one example
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温故知新
wēn gù zhī xīn
Learn new through studying old
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画龙点睛
huà lóng diǎn jīng
Add crucial finishing touch
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读万卷书
dú wàn juǎn shū
Read extensively for knowledge
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抛砖引玉
pāo zhuān yǐn yù
Offer modest view to inspire better
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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: Theory and practice complement and enhance each other.
What is the pinyin for 相辅相成?
The pinyin pronunciation for 相辅相成 is “xiāng fǔ xiāng chéng”.