名列前茅
名列前茅 (míng liè qián máo) literally means “name listed among the front reeds”and expresses “rank among the best; be at the top”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving success & perseverance.
Also searched as: ming lie qian mao, ming lie qian mao,名列前茅 meaning, 名列前茅 in english
Pronunciation: míng liè qián máo Literal meaning: Name listed among the front reeds
Origin & Usage
This idiom originates from ancient Chinese military practice where commanders at the front of an army carried 'mao' (茅), a type of reed grass, as signal markers. To have one's name (名) listed (列) among the front reeds (前茅) meant being at the vanguard. The phrase evolved to describe being among the top performers in any ranking or competition. Modern usage commonly describes academic achievement, sports rankings, or business performance that places someone among the leaders.
When to Use
Situation: She consistently ranked at the top of her class.
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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 名列前茅 mean in English?
名列前茅 (míng liè qián máo) literally translates to “Name listed among the front reeds”and is used to express “Rank among the best; be at the top”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theSuccess & Perseverance category..
When is 名列前茅 used?
Situation: She consistently ranked at the top of her class.
What is the pinyin for 名列前茅?
The pinyin pronunciation for 名列前茅 is “míng liè qián máo”.