Chinese Idiom: 掷地金声 (Zhi Di Jin Sheng) English Translation: The sound of gold thrown to the ground pīn yīn: zhì dì jīn shēng Idiom Meaning: This phrase describes the high quality and brilliance of a piece of writing, indicating that it has a powerful and resonant impact. Historical Source: This idiom is derived from The […]
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Chinese Idiom: 渐入佳境 (Jian Ru Jia JIng) English Translation: Gradually entering a good situation pīn yīn: jiàn rù jiā jìng Idiom Meaning: Originally referred to the idea that the lower part of sugarcane is sweeter than the upper part, signifying that as one progresses, the situation improves or interest intensifies. Historical Source: Book of Jin
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Chinese Idiom: 崇山峻岭 (Chong Shan Jun Ling) English Translation: Lofty and steep mountains and ridges pīn yīn: chóng shān jùn lǐng Idiom Meaning: Describes mountains that are steep and towering; “崇” means high, and “峻” means steep. Historical Source: From Wang Xizhi’s 兰亭集序 (Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection) during the Eastern Jin Dynasty. Idiom
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Chinese Idiom: 素琴无弦 (Su Qin Wu Xian) English Translation: A guqin without strings pīn yīn: sù qín wú xián Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes a leisurely and carefree lifestyle, often associated with simplicity and tranquility. Historical Source: Song Shu (《宋书 · 陶潜传》) Idiom Story: Tao Yuanming, a renowned literary figure of the Jin Dynasty, is
Chinese Idiom: 奄奄一息 (Yan Yan Yi Xi) English Translation: Only a faint breath remains pīn yīn: yǎn yǎn yī xī Idiom Meaning: This phrase describes a state where someone is barely alive, hanging by a thread, or in their final moments. It conveys the idea of being on the brink of death or in a
Chinese Idiom: 始终不渝 (Shi Zhong Bu Yu) English Translation: Unwavering from beginning to end pīn yīn: shǐ zhōng bù yú Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes a steadfast commitment to principles, aspirations, or promises that remains unchanged from the beginning to the end. Historical Source: “Book of Jin” (《晋书》), specifically in the biography of Xie An
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Chinese Idiom: 兵不血刃 (Bing Bu Xue Ren) English Translation: Victory without shedding blood pīn yīn: bīng bù xuè rèn Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to achieving victory without engaging in direct combat. It emphasizes the effectiveness of strategy and diplomacy over violence. Historical Source: Xunzi’s Discussion on Warfare (《荀子 · 议兵》) Idiom Story: In 305
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Chinese Idiom: 后起之秀 (Hou Qi Zhi Xiu) English Translation: Outstanding figures among the later generations pīn yīn: hòu qǐ zhī xiù Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to exceptional individuals among the younger generation or those who have recently emerged, emphasizing their talent and potential. Historical Source: “A New Account of the Tales of the World” (《世说新语·赏誉》)
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Chinese Idiom: 如坐针毡 (Ru Zuo Zhen Zhan) English Translation: Like sitting on a bed of needles pīn yīn: rú zuò zhēn zhān Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes a state of extreme discomfort and anxiety, akin to sitting on a bed of needles. It metaphorically represents feeling restless, uneasy, or on edge. Historical Source: 《晋书·杜锡传》 (The
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Chinese Idiom: 世外桃源 (Shi Wai Tao Yuan) English Translation: Peach Blossom Land Beyond the World pīn yīn: shì wài táo yuán Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes an idyllic, utopian place that is free from the troubles and conflicts of the outside world. It refers to an ideal and peaceful realm, often seen as a retreat
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