海纳百川(海納百川)
海纳百川 (hǎi nà bǎi chuān) literally means “sea accepts hundred rivers”and expresses “accept all with open mind”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships & character.
Also searched as: hai na bai chuan, hai na bai chuan,海纳百川 meaning, 海纳百川 in english
Pronunciation: hǎi nà bǎi chuān Literal meaning: Sea accepts hundred rivers
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes how the sea (海) accepts (纳) a hundred (百) rivers (川), celebrating inclusivity and breadth of mind. It first gained prominence during the Tang Dynasty, reflecting China's cosmopolitan golden age when the capital Chang'an welcomed influences from across Asia. The metaphor draws power from the observation that the sea maintains its nature while accepting countless streams. During the Song Dynasty, Neo-Confucian scholars used it to advocate for intellectual openness while maintaining core principles. Modern usage promotes diversity and open-mindedness in organizational culture, suggesting that true greatness comes from embracing multiple perspectives while maintaining coherent identity.
When to Use
Situation: The company welcomed diverse perspectives and ideas
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
不远千里
bù yuǎn qiān lǐ
Willingly travel far; make great efforts
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朝思暮想
zhāo sī mù xiǎng
Think about constantly; yearn for
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魂牵梦萦
hún qiān mèng yíng
Yearn day and night
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恋恋不舍
liàn liàn bù shě
Be deeply reluctant to leave
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难分难舍
nán fēn nán shě
Be inseparable; hate to part
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海枯石烂
hǎi kū shí làn
Until the end of time; eternal love
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一见钟情
yī jiàn zhōng qíng
Love at first sight
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白头偕老
bái tóu xié lǎo
Grow old together; lifelong partnership
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 海纳百川 mean in English?
海纳百川 (hǎi nà bǎi chuān) literally translates to “Sea accepts hundred rivers”and is used to express “Accept all with open mind”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theRelationships & Character category..
When is 海纳百川 used?
Situation: The company welcomed diverse perspectives and ideas
What is the pinyin for 海纳百川?
The pinyin pronunciation for 海纳百川 is “hǎi nà bǎi chuān”.
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