青云直上(青雲直上)
青云直上 (qīng yún zhí shàng) literally means “blue clouds straight up”and expresses “rise quickly to high position”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving success & perseverance.
Also searched as: qing yun zhi shang, qing yun zhi shang,青云直上 meaning, 青云直上 in english
Pronunciation: qīng yún zhí shàng Literal meaning: Blue clouds straight up
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes going straight (直) up (上) to blue (青) clouds (云). Similar to 平步青云, it depicts rapid ascent to high positions. The directness of 直 emphasizes the speed and lack of detours. Modern usage describes rapid promotion and career advancement, rising directly to the top without setbacks.
When to Use
Situation: Her talent propelled her rapidly through the ranks.
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
匠心独运
jiàng xīn dú yùn
Apply creative genius; show ingenuity
Learn more →
独具匠心
dú jù jiàng xīn
Show great ingenuity; have original design
Learn more →
别具一格
bié jù yī gé
Have unique style; be distinctive
Learn more →
独树一帜
dú shù yī zhì
Be unique; have distinctive style
Learn more →
独占鳌头
dú zhàn áo tóu
Come first; win top honors
Learn more →
出神入化
chū shén rù huà
Reach supernatural skill level
Learn more →
功成名就
gōng chéng míng jiù
Achieve success and fame
Learn more →
名利双收
míng lì shuāng shōu
Gain both fame and fortune
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 青云直上 mean in English?
青云直上 (qīng yún zhí shàng) literally translates to “Blue clouds straight up”and is used to express “Rise quickly to high position”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theSuccess & Perseverance category..
When is 青云直上 used?
Situation: Her talent propelled her rapidly through the ranks.
What is the pinyin for 青云直上?
The pinyin pronunciation for 青云直上 is “qīng yún zhí shàng”.