Relationships & Character Chinese Idioms

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Exactly identical

Originating in Ming Dynasty craftsmen's guilds, this idiom literally means one (一) mold (模) produces one (一) appearance (样). It derives from the ancie...

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Treat others as yourself

This idiom emerged during the Han Dynasty, expressing the profound concept of exchanging (换) one heart (心) for another (以). It first appeared in diplo...

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Accept all with open mind

This idiom describes how the sea (海) accepts (纳) a hundred (百) rivers (川), celebrating inclusivity and breadth of mind. It first gained prominence dur...

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Value harmony above all

This idiom, promoting harmony (和) as precious (贵), traces back to the Zhou Dynasty classic 'Guoyu,' reflecting early Chinese diplomatic philosophy. Th...

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Face challenges together

This idiom shares deep connections with China's river-centric civilization, where crossing (济) together (共) in the same boat (同舟) was often a matter o...

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Share hardships together

Closely related to '同舟共济' but with added emotional depth, this idiom evokes sharing a boat (同舟) amid wind (风) and rain (雨). It first appeared in Song ...

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Gentle, nurturing influence

This poetic metaphor traces back to the Han Dynasty's educational philosophy, where ideal teaching was compared to spring winds (春风) transforming into...

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Borrow authority to intimidate

This idiom emerged from a Warring States period fable where a fox (狐) borrowed (假) the authority (威) of a tiger (虎) to intimidate other animals. The s...

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Help and support each other

Originating from ancient Chinese village organization principles, this phrase describes communities watching (守望) and helping (相助) each other. Histori...

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Love extends to all connections

This tender expression describes how love (爱) for a house (屋) extends (及) even to the crow (乌) perched on its roof. Dating back to the Warring States ...

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Words carry great weight

During the Zhou Dynasty, nine sacred bronze cauldrons (鼎) symbolized imperial authority. This idiom equates a single (一) word (言) with the weight of t...

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Keep secrets well

Comparing one's mouth to a sealed bottle (瓶), this idiom emerged during the Tang Dynasty when court intrigue made discretion essential for survival. T...

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Unity creates strength

This architectural metaphor shows how many wills (众志) can form an impenetrable wall (城), drawing from ancient Chinese defensive architecture. It gaine...

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Keep integrity without compromise

Emerging from Han Dynasty political discourse, this phrase combines maintaining righteousness (守正) with refusing to flatter or compromise principles (...

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Help in time of need

Sending (送) coal (炭) in snow (雪) weather captured the essence of timely assistance during critical moments. This Song Dynasty idiom arose from stories...

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Instant friendship

Dating to the Spring and Autumn period, this elegant idiom describes the instant rapport between kindred spirits, comparing it to tilting (倾) carriage...

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Return something perfect

This idiom stems from the Warring States period when Lin Xiangru, a diplomat of Zhao state, was tasked with protecting a precious jade disk (璧) that K...

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Remember your roots

This reflection on gratitude emerged during the Tang Dynasty, using the everyday act of drinking (饮) water (水) to remind one to think (思) of its sourc...

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Keep promises faithfully

Emerging from the Spring and Autumn period, this idiom equates one (一) promise (诺) with a thousand in gold (千金). It gained prominence through the stor...

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Speak without meaning it

First appearing in Han Dynasty court records, this idiom describes words (言) not originating (不由) from within one's heart (衷). It gained particular si...

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Words differ from thoughts

Originating in Tang Dynasty Buddhist texts discussing the alignment of speech and thought, this idiom describes when the mouth (口) says yes (是) but th...

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Balance excellence with social harmony

This balanced approach advocates respecting (敬) one's profession (业) while enjoying (乐) community (群), first appearing in Confucian educational texts ...

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Maintain perfect integrity despite temptation

This idiom refers to maintaining propriety (不乱) even when a woman sits (坐) in one's lap (怀), originating from a story about Confucian scholar Liuxia H...

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Perfect artistic understanding between friends

This aesthetic idiom pairs lofty (高) mountains (山) with flowing (流) water (水), originating from a famous friendship between Zhong Ziqi and musician Bo...

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Maintain perfect dignified composure

This balanced idiom advocates being neither (不) servile (卑) nor (不) arrogant (亢), originating from Confucian texts of the Warring States period. It fi...

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Companions united through shared hardship

This related idiom describes troubled (难) elder brother (兄) and troubled (难) younger brother (弟), originating from Qing Dynasty vernacular literature....

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Extreme adoration or worship

This reverential idiom combines the highest form of respect (顶礼) with devout worship (膜拜), originating from Buddhist ritual practices during the Easte...

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Abandoning those who helped you

This ungrateful idiom describes crossing (过) a river (河) and then dismantling (拆) the bridge (桥), originating from Tang Dynasty political commentary. ...

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Bluffing with fake display

This deceptive idiom describes creating false (虚) displays (张) of power (势) through noise (声), originating from Warring States period military strateg...

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Childhood sweethearts or friends

This nostalgic idiom pairs green plums (青梅) with bamboo horses (竹马), originating from Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai's verse about childhood playmates. It d...

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True nature eventually revealed

This revealing idiom references a fox's (狐狸) tail (尾巴) as something hidden that eventually shows itself, originating from Tang Dynasty folklore where ...

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Indirect criticism of real target

This indirect idiom describes pointing at (指) mulberry trees (桑) while cursing (骂) locust trees (槐), originating from the Spring and Autumn period. It...

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Professed love hiding actual fear

This ironic tale tells of Lord Ye (叶公) who professed to love (好) dragons (龙) but fled in terror when faced with a real one. During the Six Dynasties p...

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Impeccable moral character and integrity

This purity idiom pairs the clarity of ice (冰清) with the unsullied nature of jade (玉洁), originating from Han Dynasty descriptions of exemplary officia...

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To sum up everything discussed

This formal idiom combines totality (总) with expression (言之) through a linking particle (而), emerging directly from Han Dynasty scholarly writing rath...

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Decisively and firmly without hesitation

Born in the workshops of Tang Dynasty metalworkers, this phrase captures the clean, decisive action of chopping nails (斩钉) and cutting iron (截铁). The ...

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Constantly shifting loyalty for personal gain

During the turbulent Warring States period, this phrase emerged to describe officials who served Qin state in the morning (朝秦) but switched to Chu by ...

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As everyone knows or is widely recognized

Han Dynasty imperial edicts first employed this phrase to establish what everyone (众) completely (周) knows (知) before introducing new policies. Tang D...

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Too clever for one's own good

Ming Dynasty storytellers gave us this sharp critique of those who create their own version of cleverness (自作聪明), often leading to foolish decisions. ...

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Honor one's teachers or humble origins

The Warring States period text 'Lü's Spring and Autumn Annals' introduces this image of loving fur (爱毛) so much that one turns a fur coat inside out (...

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Superficial acquaintance without depth

This idiom originated from Tang Dynasty social terminology, first appearing in poetry describing fleeting encounters that created recognition without ...

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Fundamentally kind and virtuous character

This phrase originated from Buddhist terminology during the Eastern Han Dynasty introduction of Buddhism to China. It appeared in early sutras transla...

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Treat others with genuine warmth and enthusiasm

This phrase originated from Song Dynasty etiquette manuals for merchant households, first providing guidance for commercial hospitality before broaden...

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Find genuine pleasure in helping others

This phrase originated from Confucian ethical teachings in the Analects compiled around 500 BCE. The concept appears in Confucius' discussions of diff...

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Match between families of similar social status

Tang Dynasty marriage arrangers first used this architectural metaphor of matching doors (门) and households (户) to describe suitable unions. Family ge...

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Disdainfully dismiss as beneath consideration

The 'Records of the Grand Historian' captures a haughty Jin Kingdom minister's refusal (不屑) to give even a single glance (一顾) at Wei's alliance propos...

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Self-evident requiring no explanation

Han Dynasty Confucian scholars celebrated this ideal of matters that without (不) being spoken (言) are nevertheless understood (喻). It represented the ...

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Use any means regardless of ethics

Tang Dynasty historians first used this phrase to criticize those who refuse to discriminate (不择) between different means (手段) in pursuing their goals...

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Look askance with suspicion or disdain

Han Dynasty court etiquette manuals first described this technique of looking (视) with eyes turned sideways (侧目) as a way for lower officials to show ...

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Make a long story short

Yuan Dynasty theater introduced this narrative technique of telling long stories (长话) in brief form (短说). Stage directors used it to help performers c...

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Exploit others during their vulnerability

Han Dynasty military treatises first condemned this practice of taking advantage (乘) of others' moments of vulnerability (危). Tang Dynasty Confucian s...

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Completely impartial without self-interest

Han Dynasty administrative manuals first set this standard of great fairness (大公) without self-interest (无私) for imperial officials. Tang Dynasty Neo-...

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Take advantage by demanding increasingly more

This excessive demand idiom describes gaining an inch (寸) then advancing to demand a foot (尺), originating from Han Dynasty negotiation terminology re...

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Habitually forgetful and disorganized

Ming Dynasty vernacular speech captured this pattern of losing three things (丢三) and dropping four (落四). The non-sequential numbers created a perfect ...

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Look around nervously or suspiciously

Han Dynasty court observers first noted this revealing behavior of looking anxiously east (东张) and west (西望) as a sign of concealed intentions. The ca...

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Accumulated evil deeds ripe for punishment

Han Dynasty metaphysical discussions introduced this image of wickedness (恶) accumulating until fully (满) overflowing (盈). Buddhist influence strength...

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Be irresistibly drawn toward self-destruction

Han Dynasty naturalists first documented this self-destructive phenomenon of moths (飞蛾) rushing toward flames (扑火). Tang Dynasty poets transformed thi...

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Sincerely admit fault and accept consequences

The 'Records of the Grand Historian' tells how general Lin Xiangru carried thorns (负荆) while requesting punishment (请罪) to demonstrate sincere regret ...

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Everyone freely express their own opinions

Spring and Autumn period diplomatic protocols established this principle of each person expressing (抒) their own (己) view (见). Warring States strategi...

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Speak or act in deliberately indirect manner

Ming Dynasty urban guides first used this phrase to describe physical paths that turn corners (拐弯) and smooth angles (抹角). Qing Dynasty diplomatic wri...

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Individual whose behavior harms entire group

Han Dynasty horse breeders first noted how a single problematic horse (马) could harm (害) an entire herd (群). Tang Dynasty administrators adopted it to...

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Person who agrees with everyone to avoid conflict

Qing Dynasty political commentators first used this phrase to criticize excessively agreeable (好好) officials (先生) who prioritized harmony over necessa...

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Commanding imposing strategic position

Three Kingdoms period geographers first described Nanjing's terrain as having tigers crouching (虎踞) and dragons coiling (龙盘). The image combined earth...

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Talk complete nonsense without any foundation

Ming Dynasty vernacular speech gave us this colorful description of reckless speaking (胡说) scattered in eight directions (八道). Qing Dynasty scholars u...

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Maintain absolute silence about sensitive matter

Han Dynasty court protocols first established this practice of avoiding discussion (讳莫) as deeply (如深) as possible regarding sensitive imperial matter...

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Seek quick success and immediate benefit

Tang Dynasty court critics first used this phrase to condemn officials rushing achievements (急功) for immediate benefits (近利). Song Dynasty Neo-Confuci...

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To eagerly await someone or something

This idiom originates from Tang Dynasty poetry, where 'autumn waters' (秋水) was a literary metaphor for bright, clear eyes. The phrase describes lookin...

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Everlasting; eternal

This idiom derives from Chapter 7 of the Daoist classic 'Tao Te Ching' (道德经) by Laozi: 'Heaven and earth are long-lasting.' The phrase uses the eterna...

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To be true to one's word

This idiom comes from 'The Analects of Confucius' (论语), where the sage emphasized that a person's words (言) must be accompanied by trustworthiness (信)...

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Living up to one's name or reputation

This idiom originates from the Han Dynasty text 'Hou Han Shu' (后汉书), where it described officials whose abilities matched their titles. The phrase com...

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Careless; negligent

This idiom combines 'rough/coarse' (粗) heart (心) with 'big/careless' (大) intention (意) to describe a lack of attention to detail. While both component...

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Self-righteous; opinionated

This idiom appears in the ancient Daoist text 'Zhuangzi' and was used by Confucius to criticize those who considered themselves (自以为) always right (是)...

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Calm and composed; even-tempered

This idiom combines 'calm heart' (心平) with 'harmonious breath/energy' (气和), reflecting traditional Chinese understanding of emotional and physical bal...

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Everyone talking at once; lively discussion

This idiom uses the numbers seven (七) and eight (八), which in Chinese often suggest 'many' or 'various,' combined with mouths (嘴) and tongues (舌) to d...

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Upright and open; above board

This idiom combines 'bright and luminous' (光明) with 'open and upright' (磊落) to describe someone of impeccable moral character. The character 磊 depicts...

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Inseparable; always together

This idiom compares close companions to a person (形, form/body) and their shadow (影) that never (不) separate (离). The phrase originates from ancient C...

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Volunteer bravely; step forward willingly

This idiom describes volunteering (自告) with vigor (奋) and courage (勇), emphasizing initiative and bravery in stepping forward. The phrase combines sel...

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Knowingly commit a violation

This idiom describes clearly knowing (明知) something is wrong yet deliberately (故) doing it anyway (犯). The phrase emphasizes the moral culpability tha...

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Talk endlessly; speak at great length

This idiom uses the image of surging (滔滔) waves that never (不) cease (绝) to describe continuous, flowing speech. The reduplicated 'taotao' evokes the ...

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Unmoved; indifferent

This idiom describes having no (无) movement (动) within (于) one's heart (衷). The character 衷 specifically refers to the innermost feelings. The phrase ...

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Unknown; working in obscurity

This idiom describes working silently (默默) without (无) anyone hearing of it (闻). It depicts humble labor without recognition or fame. The phrase can d...

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Treat everyone equally without discrimination

This idiom describes viewing (视) everyone with the same (一同) benevolence (仁). The Confucian concept of 'ren' (仁, benevolence) is extended equally to a...

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Argue endlessly without resolution

This idiom describes arguing (争论) without (不) stopping (休). The phrase captures the frustration of debates that continue indefinitely without resoluti...

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Willingly; without reluctance

This idiom describes a state where the heart (心) finds sweetness (甘) and feelings (情) are willing (愿). It emphasizes genuine, voluntary acceptance wit...

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Exaggerate; overstate

This idiom describes words (言) that exceed (过) the actual reality (其实). It originated from 'Records of the Three Kingdoms,' where Zhuge Liang used it ...

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Turn a blind eye; deliberately ignore

This idiom describes looking (视) but not (不) seeing (见), indicating willful blindness rather than genuine inability to perceive. The phrase originated...

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Act as if nothing happened

This idiom describes behaving as if (若) there was no (无) such matter (其事). It depicts maintaining a calm or normal demeanor despite significant events...

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Get worse; intensify negatively

This idiom describes change (变) from the original (本) state by adding (加) severity (厉). It depicts situations that worsen instead of improving, with p...

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Devote oneself completely; work until exhausted

This idiom describes bowing (鞠躬) while exhausting oneself completely (尽瘁). It comes from Zhuge Liang's famous memorial 'Chu Shi Biao,' where he pledge...

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Tacit understanding; unspoken agreement

This idiom describes hearts (心) that illuminate/understand each other (照) without (不) explicit declaration (宣). It captures the special rapport betwee...

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As always; unchanged

This idiom describes being the same (一如) as it has always been (既往). It emphasizes consistency and unchanged behavior or quality over time. The phrase...

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Reluctant to part; lingering attachment

This idiom uses the reduplicated 'yiyi' (依依), meaning clinging or attached, combined with unwilling (不舍) to part. It describes the emotional difficult...

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Make a fuss about nothing

This idiom describes making big (大) surprise (惊) over small (小) strange things (怪) - overreacting to minor matters. The phrase criticizes disproportio...

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Talk irresponsibly; make things up

This idiom describes opening (开) a river (河) from one's trusted mouth (信口) - letting words flow freely without verification or thought. The image of a...

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Meticulous; attentive to every detail

This idiom describes care where no (无) detail, however small (微), is not (不) attended to (至). It emphasizes thoroughness that extends to the smallest ...

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Sincerely repent and reform

This idiom describes painfully (痛) changing (改) one's previous (前) wrongs (非). The inclusion of 'tong' (痛, pain) suggests genuine remorse rather than ...

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Unique; distinctive

This idiom describes being different (不同) from (与) the crowd (众). It can express either positive uniqueness or critical isolation, depending on contex...

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Approachable; easy to get along with

This idiom describes being level/even (平易) and easy to approach (近人). It praises those who, despite status or accomplishment, remain accessible and un...

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Extremely arrogant; look down on everyone

This idiom describes having no (无) person (人) in one's eyes (目中) - looking through people as if they don't exist. It criticizes extreme arrogance that...

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Perfect mutual understanding; hearts in harmony

This idiom describes hearts (心心) mutually (相) sealing or imprinting upon (印) each other. It comes from Chan (Zen) Buddhism describing the wordless tra...

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Regret not meeting sooner; instant rapport

This idiom describes meeting (相见) and regretting (恨) it was late (晚). It expresses the feeling when connecting with someone special and wishing the re...

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Sympathize with those sharing similar troubles

This idiom describes those with the same (同) illness or affliction (病) mutually (相) sympathizing (怜). It captures the special understanding between pe...

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Practice what one preaches

This idiom describes words (言) and actions (行) being consistent (一致). It embodies the Confucian ideal of integrity where speech matches behavior. The ...

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Underestimate oneself; excessive self-deprecation

This idiom describes wrongly (妄) depreciating (菲薄) oneself (自). It warns against excessive self-deprecation that undervalues one's abilities. The phra...

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Go through fire and water; brave any danger

This idiom describes going into (赴) boiling water (汤) and stepping on (蹈) fire (火). It represents willingness to face extreme danger or hardship. The ...

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Compassion; empathy for others

This idiom describes the heart (心) of compassion (恻隐). It comes from Mencius, who argued this feeling of pain at others' suffering is innate to all hu...

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Seek fame through calculated actions

This idiom describes seeking to buy (沽) fame (名) and fishing (钓) for reputation (誉). It criticizes those who pursue recognition through calculated act...

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Be domineering and arrogant

This idiom describes commanding others with chin (颐) gestures (指) and breathing (气) to direct (使). It depicts someone so arrogant they give orders thr...

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Strut arrogantly; be conceited

This idiom describes walking with toes (趾) high (高) and spirits (气) raised (扬). It depicts someone strutting with such arrogance that even their toes ...

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Be conceited; have an inflated ego

This idiom describes unreasonably (妄) considering oneself (自) honorable and great (尊大). It is the opposite of 妄自菲薄, describing excessive self-importan...

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Be moody; have unpredictable emotions

This idiom describes having joy (喜) and anger (怒) without (无) consistency (常). It depicts someone whose emotions are unpredictable and volatile. The p...

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Be furious beyond control

This idiom describes anger (怒) that cannot (不可) be suppressed (遏). It depicts rage so intense that it overwhelms all attempts at self-control. The phr...

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Be beaming with joy

This idiom describes being so happy (喜) that one smiles (笑) and the face (颜) opens up (开). It captures the physical transformation that genuine joy br...

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Be animated with excitement

This idiom describes eyebrows (眉) flying (飞) and expression (色) dancing (舞). It captures the animated facial expressions of someone excited or enthusi...

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Be all smiles; radiate happiness

This idiom describes brows (眉) opening (开) and eyes (眼) smiling (笑). It depicts the full facial expression of genuine happiness where both brows relax...

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Look worried and unhappy

This idiom describes worried (愁) brows (眉) and a bitter (苦) face (脸). It depicts the physical manifestation of anxiety and unhappiness in facial expre...

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Show strict discipline; not take anything

This idiom describes not (无) violating (犯) even the finest autumn hair (秋毫). Autumn down refers to the tiny new hairs animals grow for winter - extrem...

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Live openly with clear conscience

This idiom describes being open (坦坦) and broad (荡荡). The doubled characters emphasize the degree of openness and freedom from anxiety. It depicts some...

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Be consistent inside and out

This idiom describes the outside (表) and inside (里) being as (如) one (一). It depicts consistency between one's public persona and private self, betwee...

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A promise once made must be kept

This idiom describes once (既) a word (一言) is spoken (出). It is often paired with 驷马难追 (four horses cannot catch it) to emphasize that spoken words can...

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Be candid and fair

This idiom describes opening (开) sincerity (诚) and spreading (布) fairness (公). It originated from descriptions of Zhuge Liang's governance style - tra...

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Share complete trust and loyalty

This idiom describes livers (肝) and galls (胆) illuminating (照) each other (相). In Chinese culture, these organs represent courage and sincerity. The p...

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Speak from the heart; confide completely

This idiom describes pushing (推) one's heart (心) and placing (置) it in another's belly (腹). It depicts such trust that one metaphorically gives their ...

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Share the same goals and values

This idiom describes having the same (同) aspirations (志) and aligned (合) paths (道). It depicts people united by shared goals and values rather than me...

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Be perfectly compatible; hit it off

This idiom describes feelings (情) being cast together (投) and ideas (意) matching (合). It depicts natural compatibility where both emotions and thought...

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Be bosom friends

This idiom describes a friendship (交) without (莫) opposition (逆). It comes from Zhuangzi describing friends whose relationship has no discord or confl...

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Be sworn friends; absolute loyalty

This idiom describes a friendship (交) of severed necks (刎颈). It comes from the story of Lian Po and Lin Xiangru who reconciled their enmity and became...

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Help each other in adversity

This idiom describes moistening each other (相濡) with foam (以沫). From Zhuangzi's parable of fish in a drying pond who keep each other alive by sharing ...

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Treat each other with respect

This idiom describes respecting each other (相敬) like guests (如宾). It comes from Zuozhuan describing an ideal married couple who maintained the courtes...

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Married couple with great mutual respect

This idiom describes raising (举) a food tray (案) level (齐) with one's eyebrows (眉). It comes from the story of Meng Guang who showed deep respect for ...

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Grow old together; lifelong partnership

This idiom describes white (白) heads (头) together (偕) in old age (老). It depicts couples who grow old together, their hair turning white side by side....

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Love at first sight

This idiom describes at one (一) glance (见) feelings (情) concentrate (钟). It captures the experience of instant romantic attraction where love strikes ...

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Until the end of time; eternal love

This idiom describes seas (海) drying up (枯) and stones (石) rotting (烂). These are impossibilities that would take eternity - seas don't dry and stones...

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Be inseparable; hate to part

This idiom describes being hard (难) to part (分) and hard (难) to leave (舍). It depicts the pain of separation when attachment is strong. The doubled st...

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Be deeply reluctant to leave

This idiom describes being attached (恋恋) and unwilling (不舍) to leave. Similar to 依依不舍 but with stronger emotional attachment through the character 恋 (...

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Yearn day and night

This idiom describes the soul (魂) being pulled (牵) and dreams (梦) being haunted (萦). It depicts longing so intense it occupies both waking and sleepin...

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Think about constantly; yearn for

This idiom describes thinking (思) in the morning (朝) and yearning (想) at night (暮). It depicts constant preoccupation from dawn to dusk. The phrase ca...

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Willingly travel far; make great efforts

This idiom describes not (不) considering far (远) a thousand (千) miles (里). From Mencius describing the willingness to travel great distances for impor...

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Instant connection

The idiom 一见如故 (yī jiàn rú gù) originates from the historical text 《左传》 (Zuo Zhuan), specifically during the Spring and Autumn period. It tells the st...

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Extreme loyalty

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 两肋插刀 (liǎng lèi chā dāo) originates from a tale involving the famed hero Qin Shubao during the late Sui ...

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Sibling-like bond

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 情同手足 (qíng tóng shǒu zú) vividly describes a relationship as close as that between one's hands (手) and f...

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Ultimate sacrifice

The idiom 肝脑涂地 (gān nǎo tú dì) originates from the historical text 'Records of the Grand Historian' (史记) by Sima Qian (司马迁). It describes the aftermat...

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Pure and sincere heart

The idiom 赤子之心 (chì zǐ zhī xīn) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a heart that is pure, innocent, and sincere, akin to that...

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Family happiness

The idiom 天伦之乐 (tiān lún zhī lè) originates from the Tang dynasty, specifically from a work by the renowned poet Li Bai (李白). In his prose piece 'Spri...

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Inseparable family bond

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 骨肉相连 (gǔ ròu xiāng lián) literally translates to 'bones and flesh are connected.' It evokes the image of...

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Brotherly affection

The idiom 手足之情 (shǒu zú zhī qíng) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe the profound bond between siblings, akin to the inseparable relati...

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Noble and steadfast

Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 高风亮节 (gāo fēng liàng jié) praises individuals with noble character and unwavering integrity. ...

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Moral integrity

The idiom 正人君子 (zhèng rén jūn zǐ) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a person of upright character and high moral standards....

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Respected elder

The idiom 德高望重 (dé gāo wàng zhòng) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe individuals of high moral character and great respect....

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Open-mindedness

The idiom 心胸开阔 (xīn xiōng kāi kuò) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe a person with a broad mind and generous spirit. It is composed of...

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Exploit misfortune

The idiom 落井下石 (luò jǐng xià shí) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a situation where someone takes advantage of another's ...

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Ingratitude and betrayal

The idiom 恩将仇报 (ēn jiāng chóu bào) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe the act of repaying kindness with enmity. While its sp...

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Ungrateful betrayal

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 忘恩负义 (wàng ēn fù yì) conveys the idea of forgetting kindness and betraying loyalty. The characters break...

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Selfish gain

The idiom 损人利己 (sǔn rén lì jǐ) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe actions that benefit oneself at the expense of others. Whi...

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Superficial judgment

The idiom 以貌取人 (yǐ mào qǔ rén) originates from the historical text 《史记》 (Shǐjì) by Sima Qian, specifically from the chapter on Confucius' disciples. T...

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Hypocritical demeanor

The idiom 道貌岸然 (dào mào àn rán) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe someone who appears solemn and dignified (道貌, dào mào) bu...

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Vigor despite age

The idiom 老当益壮 (lǎo dāng yì zhuàng) originates from the historical account of Ma Yuan, a renowned general during the Eastern Han Dynasty. As recorded ...

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Honest business practices

The idiom 童叟无欺 (tóng sǒu wú qī) originates from the late Qing dynasty, specifically from the novel 《二十年目睹之怪现状》 by Wu Jianren. It describes a business ...

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Intergenerational harmony

The idiom 尊老爱幼 (zūn lǎo ài yòu) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to emphasize the moral virtues of respecting the elderly (尊, respect)...

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Maximize individual potential

The idiom 人尽其才 (rén jìn qí cái) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to express the idea of utilizing everyone's talents to their fullest ...

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Maximize resource use

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 物尽其用 (wù jìn qí yòng) emphasizes the principle of maximizing the utility of resources. Although its earl...

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Trusted leadership

The idiom 众望所归 (zhòng wàng suǒ guī) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a person who has earned the trust and admiration of t...

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Universally praised

The idiom 有口皆碑 (yǒu kǒu jiē bēi) is rooted in classical Chinese literature, with its earliest known mention in the Song dynasty text 《五灯会元》 by Shi Puj...

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Mutual reliance

The idiom 唇齿相依 (chún chǐ xiāng yī) originates from the historical context of the Spring and Autumn period, as recorded in the ancient text 《左传》 (Zuǒ Z...

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Reserved and thoughtful

The idiom 沉默寡言 (chén mò guǎ yán) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a person who is quiet and speaks very little. It is ofte...

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Justice over family

The idiom 大义灭亲 (dà yì miè qīn) originates from the historical text 《左传》 (Zuo Zhuan), specifically from the story of Shi Que (石碏) during the Spring and...

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Selfless dedication

The idiom 公而忘私 (gōng ér wàng sī) originates from the Han Dynasty, specifically from the writings of Ban Gu in the 'Book of Han' (汉书). It tells the sto...

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Perfect happiness

The idiom 花好月圆 (huā hǎo yuè yuán) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe a state of perfect happiness and harmony, often in the context of ...

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Solidarity in hardship

The idiom 患难与共 (huàn nàn yǔ gòng) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe the act of sharing burdens and facing difficulties toge...

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Courageous moral action

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 见义勇为 (jiàn yì yǒng wéi) describes the act of seeing (见, jiàn) a righteous deed (义, yì) and courageously ...

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Patient, sincere advice

The idiom 苦口婆心 (kǔ kǒu pó xīn) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe the act of advising someone with sincere and patient intentions. The ...

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Confident and charming

Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 落落大方 (luò luò dà fāng) describes a person whose demeanor is naturally poised and graceful. Th...

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Radiant happiness

Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 满面春风 (mǎn miàn chūn fēng) paints a vivid picture of a person whose face is glowing with happi...

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Non-verbal affection

The idiom 眉目传情 (méi mù chuán qíng) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe the subtle and non-verbal communication of emotions, p...

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Integrity over compromise

The idiom 宁为玉碎 (nìng wéi yù suì) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to express a preference for maintaining one's integrity even at the ...

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Reunion after separation

The idiom 破镜重圆 (pò jìng chóng yuán) originates from a poignant story during the late Southern and Northern Dynasties period. As the Chen Dynasty was o...

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Unparalleled beauty

The idiom 倾国倾城 (qīng guó qīng chéng) originates from the Han dynasty, specifically from the historical text 《汉书》 (Hàn Shū) by Ban Gu (班固). It tells th...

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Sincere invitation

The idiom 三顾茅庐 (sān gù máo lú) originates from the historical account of Liu Bei's persistent efforts to recruit the brilliant strategist Zhuge Liang ...

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Influence of leadership

The idiom 上行下效 (shàng xíng xià xiào) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe the phenomenon where the actions of those in higher ...

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Selflessness

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 舍己为人 (shě jǐ wèi rén) emphasizes the noble act of sacrificing one's own interests (舍, give up) for the b...

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Selfish pursuit of gain

The idiom 唯利是图 (wéi lì shì tú) originates from the historical context of the Spring and Autumn period, as recorded in the 'Zuo Zhuan' (左传). During thi...

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Balanced character

The idiom 文质彬彬 (wén zhì bīn bīn) originates from the Analects of Confucius (论语, Lúnyǔ), specifically from the chapter 'Yong Ye' (雍也). Confucius discus...

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Clear conscience

Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 问心无愧 (wèn xīn wú kuì) conveys a sense of moral integrity and self-assurance. The phrase liter...

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Extreme admiration

The idiom 五体投地 (wǔ tǐ tóu dì) originates from ancient Indian Buddhist practices, where it was considered the highest form of reverence. This ceremonia...

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Frank and outspoken

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 心直口快 (xīn zhí kǒu kuài) describes a person who is frank and outspoken, speaking their mind without hesit...

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Moral purity

The idiom 一尘不染 (yī chén bù rǎn) originates from Buddhist texts, particularly from the Tang dynasty. It is derived from a story in the '法苑珠林' (Fǎ Yuàn ...

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Continuity of tradition

Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 一脉相承 (yī mài xiāng chéng) conveys the idea of continuity and inheritance within a lineage or ...

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Extremely stingy

The idiom 一毛不拔 (yī máo bù bá) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe someone who is extremely stingy or unwilling to share even the smalles...

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Lead by example

Commonly used in classical Chinese literature, the idiom 以身作则 (yǐ shēn zuò zé) emphasizes the importance of leading by example. The phrase breaks down...

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Heartfelt advice

The idiom 语重心长 (yǔ zhòng xīn cháng) originates from the Qing dynasty novel 《海国英雄记·回唐》 by Luo Risheng. In the story, a character reflects on the heartf...

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Moral and capable

The idiom 德才兼备 (dé cái jiān bèi) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe individuals who possess both high moral character (德, dé) and outst...

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Mutual deceit

The idiom 尔虞我诈 (ěr yú wǒ zhà) originates from the historical text 《左传》 (Zuo Zhuan), specifically during the Spring and Autumn period. It recounts a st...

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Extreme sorrow

The idiom 肝肠寸断 (gān cháng cùn duàn) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a state of extreme sorrow or heartbreak. The phrase l...

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Empathy and understanding

The idiom 将心比心 (jiāng xīn bǐ xīn) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to express the concept of empathy and understanding others by putti...

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