雨后春笋
雨后春笋 (yǔ hòu chūn sǔn) literally means “bamboo shoots after spring rain” and expresses “emerging rapidly in great numbers”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: yu hou chun sun, yu hou chun sun,雨后春笋 meaning, 雨后春笋 in english
Emerging rapidly in great numbers
Pronunciation: yǔ hòu chūn sǔn
Literal meaning: Bamboo shoots after spring rain
Origin & Usage
This idiom captures the natural phenomenon of bamboo shoots (春笋) growing rapidly after (后) spring rain (雨). In Chinese landscapes, bamboo groves visibly transform after rainfall as countless new shoots emerge almost overnight. The phrase first appeared in Song Dynasty texts describing rapid multiplication of phenomena. It emphasizes both speed and abundance, suggesting organic, natural growth rather than forced development. Modern usage commonly describes rapid emergence of new businesses, trends, buildings, or any phenomenon proliferating quickly.
Examples
English: "Tech startups are emerging rapidly like bamboo shoots after rain."
Chinese: 科技初创公司如雨后春笋般涌现。
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Apply creative genius; show ingenuity
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Have unique style; be distinctive
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Reach perfection; master completely
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 雨后春笋 mean in English?
雨后春笋 (yǔ hòu chūn sǔn) literally translates to “Bamboo shoots after spring rain” and is used to express “Emerging rapidly in great numbers”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 雨后春笋 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving emerging rapidly in great numbers.
What is the pinyin for 雨后春笋?
The pinyin pronunciation for 雨后春笋 is “yǔ hòu chūn sǔn”.