周而复始
周而复始 (zhōu ér fù shǐ) literally means “cycle and start again” and expresses “endless cycle”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving life philosophy.
Also searched as: zhou er fu shi, zhou er fu shi,周而复始 meaning, 周而复始 in english
Endless cycle
Pronunciation: zhōu ér fù shǐ Literal meaning: Cycle and start again
Origin & Usage
Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 周而复始 (zhōu ér fù shǐ) captures the essence of cyclical processes in nature and life. The phrase is composed of 周 (zhōu), meaning 'circle' or 'cycle,' and 复始 (fù shǐ), meaning 'to start again.' This idiom vividly illustrates the endless cycles observed in the natural world, such as the changing seasons or the daily rising and setting of the sun. In modern usage, it serves as a reminder of the perpetual cycles that govern our lives, encouraging a philosophical acceptance of life's repetitive nature.
Examples
English: "The seasons change, reminding us that life is a continuous cycle of beginnings and endings."
Chinese: 四季更替，让我们意识到生活是一个不断循环的过程。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about life philosophy
一波三折
yī bō sān zhé
Many twists and turns
Learn more →
改邪归正
gǎi xié guī zhèng
Return to righteousness
Learn more →
好逸恶劳
hào yì wù láo
Love ease, hate work
Learn more →
物极必反
wù jí bì fǎn
Extremes lead to reversal
Learn more →
塞翁失马
sài wēng shī mǎ
Misfortune might be a blessing
Learn more →
近水楼台
jìn shuǐ lóu tái
Advantage from close connections
Learn more →
夜郎自大
yè láng zì dà
Overestimate oneself
Learn more →
因果报应
yīn guǒ bào yìng
Actions have consequences
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 周而复始 mean in English?
周而复始 (zhōu ér fù shǐ) literally translates to “Cycle and start again” and is used to express “Endless cycle”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Life Philosophy category.
When is 周而复始 used?
Situation: The seasons change, reminding us that life is a continuous cycle of beginnings and endings.
What is the pinyin for 周而复始?
The pinyin pronunciation for 周而复始 is “zhōu ér fù shǐ”.