趾高气扬
趾高气扬 (zhǐ gāo qì yáng) literally means “toes high, spirits lifted” and expresses “strut arrogantly; be conceited”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: zhi gao qi yang, zhi gao qi yang,趾高气扬 meaning, 趾高气扬 in english
Strut arrogantly; be conceited
Pronunciation: zhǐ gāo qì yáng
Literal meaning: Toes high, spirits lifted
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes walking with toes (趾) high (高) and spirits (气) raised (扬). It depicts someone strutting with such arrogance that even their toes seem elevated. The phrase captures the physical embodiment of pride in one's gait and bearing. Modern usage describes people who display obvious superiority complex through their demeanor and body language.
Examples
English: "He walked through the office with an insufferably superior attitude."
Chinese: 他趾高气扬地走过办公室。
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
不远千里
bù yuǎn qiān lǐ
Willingly travel far; make great efforts
Learn more →
朝思暮想
zhāo sī mù xiǎng
Think about constantly; yearn for
Learn more →
魂牵梦萦
hún qiān mèng yíng
Yearn day and night
Learn more →
恋恋不舍
liàn liàn bù shě
Be deeply reluctant to leave
Learn more →
依依不舍
yī yī bù shě
Be reluctant to part
Learn more →
难分难舍
nán fēn nán shě
Be inseparable; hate to part
Learn more →
海枯石烂
hǎi kū shí làn
Until the end of time; eternal love
Learn more →
一见钟情
yī jiàn zhōng qíng
Love at first sight
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 趾高气扬 mean in English?
趾高气扬 (zhǐ gāo qì yáng) literally translates to “Toes high, spirits lifted” and is used to express “Strut arrogantly; be conceited”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 趾高气扬 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving strut arrogantly; be conceited.
What is the pinyin for 趾高气扬?
The pinyin pronunciation for 趾高气扬 is “zhǐ gāo qì yáng”.