源远流长

การออกเสียง: yuán yuǎn liú cháng ความหมายตามตัวอักษร: Source distant, flow long

ต้นกำเนิดและการใช้งาน

This idiom uses the metaphor of a river with distant (远) sources (源) and long (长) flow (流) to describe things with deep historical roots and lasting influence. The phrase appeared in Confucian commentaries praising traditions that connect past to present through unbroken transmission. It emphasizes both antiquity and continuity - not just old, but enduringly vital. Modern usage commonly describes cultural traditions, academic disciplines, family lineages, or any institution with deep historical foundations that remain relevant.

ตัวอย่าง

ภาษาอังกฤษ: "Chinese civilization has ancient roots and continues to thrive today."

ภาษาจีน: 中华文明源远流长，延续至今。