众所周知
众所周知 (zhòng suǒ zhōu zhī) literally means “everyone completely knows” and expresses “as everyone knows or is widely recognized”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character.
Also searched as: zhong suo zhou zhi, zhong suo zhou zhi,众所周知 meaning, 众所周知 in english
As everyone knows or is widely recognized
Pronunciation: zhòng suǒ zhōu zhī Literal meaning: Everyone completely knows
Origin & Usage
Han Dynasty imperial edicts first employed this phrase to establish what everyone (众) completely (周) knows (知) before introducing new policies. Tang Dynasty scholars refined it into a sophisticated rhetorical tool for distinguishing established knowledge from novel arguments. As literacy spread during the Song Dynasty, it evolved from formal documentation into everyday speech. Modern usage maintains its subtle power - simultaneously establishing common ground, invoking social validation, and gently pressuring dissenters through suggested consensus.
Examples
English: "It is widely accepted that regular exercise contributes to better health outcomes"
Chinese: 众所周知，经常锻炼有助于改善健康状况
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
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融会贯通
róng huì guàn tōng
Master something completely
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一模一样
yī mú yī yàng
Exactly identical
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以心换心
yǐ xīn huàn xīn
Treat others as yourself
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好逸恶劳
hào yì wù láo
Love ease, hate work
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青出于蓝
qīng chū yú lán
Student surpasses master
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海纳百川
hǎi nà bǎi chuān
Accept all with open mind
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以和为贵
yǐ hé wéi guì
Value harmony above all
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 众所周知 mean in English?
众所周知 (zhòng suǒ zhōu zhī) literally translates to “Everyone completely knows” and is used to express “As everyone knows or is widely recognized”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 众所周知 used?
Situation: It is widely accepted that regular exercise contributes to better health outcomes
What is the pinyin for 众所周知?
The pinyin pronunciation for 众所周知 is “zhòng suǒ zhōu zhī”.