言过其实
言过其实 (yán guò qí shí) literally means “words exceed the reality” and expresses “exaggerate; overstate”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character.
Also searched as: yan guo qi shi, yan guo qi shi,言过其实 meaning, 言过其实 in english
Exaggerate; overstate
Pronunciation: yán guò qí shí Literal meaning: Words exceed the reality
Origin & Usage
Liu Bei, dying, warned Zhuge Liang about Ma Su: his words (言) run past (过) the substance (其实), and he is not to be given large responsibilities — look into it. The Records of the Three Kingdoms adds that Zhuge Liang did not agree, and made Ma Su an adviser anyway; Ma Su later lost Jieting and was executed for it. The phrase describes a reputation running ahead of the ability behind it, and the story is careful that the man who ignored the warning was the cleverest person in the room.
Examples
English: "His claims about his achievements were greatly exaggerated."
Chinese: 他对自己成就的描述言过其实。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
名副其实
míng fù qí shí
Living up to one's name or reputation
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不择手段
bú zé shǒu duàn
Use any means regardless of ethics
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自以为是
zì yǐ wéi shì
Self-righteous; opinionated
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明知故犯
míng zhī gù fàn
Knowingly commit a violation
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沽名钓誉
gū míng diào yù
Seek fame through calculated actions
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同舟共济
tóng zhōu gòng jì
Face challenges together
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牵羊担酒
qiān yáng dān jiǔ
Bring gifts to celebrate or give thanks
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暗箭伤人
àn jiàn shāng rén
Covert attacks avoiding direct confrontation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 言过其实 mean in English?
言过其实 (yán guò qí shí) literally translates to “Words exceed the reality” and is used to express “Exaggerate; overstate”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 言过其实 used?
Situation: His claims about his achievements were greatly exaggerated.
What is the pinyin for 言过其实?
The pinyin pronunciation for 言过其实 is “yán guò qí shí”.