言行一致
言行一致 (yán xíng yī zhì) literally means “words and actions consistent”and expresses “practice what one preaches”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships & character.
Also searched as: yan xing yi zhi, yan xing yi zhi,言行一致 meaning, 言行一致 in english
Pronunciation: yán xíng yī zhì Literal meaning: Words and actions consistent
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes words (言) and actions (行) being consistent (一致). It embodies the Confucian ideal of integrity where speech matches behavior. The phrase appeared in texts praising individuals whose deeds fulfilled their promises. Confucius emphasized that the superior person is slow to speak but quick to act, and their words must match their actions. Modern usage praises those who practice what they preach and maintain consistency between stated values and actual behavior.
When to Use
Situation: She always practices what she preaches.
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
适可而止
shì kě ér zhǐ
Stop at the right point; practice moderation
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 言行一致 mean in English?
言行一致 (yán xíng yī zhì) literally translates to “Words and actions consistent”and is used to express “Practice what one preaches”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theRelationships & Character category..
When is 言行一致 used?
Situation: She always practices what she preaches.
What is the pinyin for 言行一致?
The pinyin pronunciation for 言行一致 is “yán xíng yī zhì”.
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