炉火纯青(爐火純青)
炉火纯青 (lú huǒ chún qīng) literally means “furnace fire pure blue”and expresses “highest level of mastery; consummate skill”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving success & perseverance.
Also searched as: lu huo chun qing, lu huo chun qing,炉火纯青 meaning, 炉火纯青 in english
Pronunciation: lú huǒ chún qīng Literal meaning: Furnace fire pure blue
Origin & Usage
This idiom derives from Daoist alchemy, where the furnace fire (炉火) turning pure blue (纯青) indicated the highest temperature needed for successful transmutation. This color change signified mastery of the alchemical process. The phrase evolved to describe supreme skill in any field - when technique reaches such perfection that it appears effortless. Modern usage praises the highest level of expertise in any discipline, from martial arts to calligraphy to professional skills.
When to Use
Situation: Her calligraphy has reached the highest level of mastery.
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
匠心独运
jiàng xīn dú yùn
Apply creative genius; show ingenuity
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独具匠心
dú jù jiàng xīn
Show great ingenuity; have original design
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别具一格
bié jù yī gé
Have unique style; be distinctive
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独树一帜
dú shù yī zhì
Be unique; have distinctive style
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独占鳌头
dú zhàn áo tóu
Come first; win top honors
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出神入化
chū shén rù huà
Reach supernatural skill level
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功成名就
gōng chéng míng jiù
Achieve success and fame
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名利双收
míng lì shuāng shōu
Gain both fame and fortune
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 炉火纯青 mean in English?
炉火纯青 (lú huǒ chún qīng) literally translates to “Furnace fire pure blue”and is used to express “Highest level of mastery; consummate skill”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theSuccess & Perseverance category..
When is 炉火纯青 used?
Situation: Her calligraphy has reached the highest level of mastery.
What is the pinyin for 炉火纯青?
The pinyin pronunciation for 炉火纯青 is “lú huǒ chún qīng”.
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