知足常乐
知足常乐 (zhī zú cháng lè) literally means “know enough constant happiness” and expresses “contentment with what one has brings happiness”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving life philosophy. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: zhi zu chang le, zhi zu chang le,知足常乐 meaning, 知足常乐 in english
Contentment with what one has brings happiness
Pronunciation: zhī zú cháng lè Literal meaning: Know enough constant happiness
Origin & Usage
Laozi's profound insight in the 'Dao De Jing' teaches that knowing contentment (知足) leads to lasting happiness (常乐). The concept resonated deeply with both Daoist and Buddhist traditions, each recognizing how mental recognition of 'enough' creates more joy than endless acquisition. Tang Dynasty writers expanded its influence beyond philosophical circles into broader cultural discourse. In our modern age of constant consumption, this ancient wisdom offers a powerful alternative to the cycle of perpetual want.
When to Use
Situation: Despite modest circumstances, the family found contentment in simple pleasures and each other's company
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about life philosophy
一帆风顺
yī fān fēng shùn
Plain sailing; everything going smoothly
Learn more →
千里迢迢
qiān lǐ tiáo tiáo
Travel a great distance
Learn more →
民富国强
mín fù guó qiáng
Prosperous people and powerful nation
Learn more →
国泰民安
guó tài mín ān
National peace and public security
Learn more →
太平盛世
tài píng shèng shì
Golden age of peace and prosperity
Learn more →
四海升平
sì hǎi shēng píng
Peace everywhere; universal harmony
Learn more →
安土重迁
ān tǔ zhòng qiān
Prefer stability; reluctant to relocate
Learn more →
故土难离
gù tǔ nán lí
Hard to leave one's homeland
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 知足常乐 mean in English?
知足常乐 (zhī zú cháng lè) literally translates to “Know enough constant happiness” and is used to express “Contentment with what one has brings happiness”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Life Philosophy category.
When is 知足常乐 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving contentment with what one has brings happiness.
What is the pinyin for 知足常乐?
The pinyin pronunciation for 知足常乐 is “zhī zú cháng lè”.