Basic Info
Chinese Idiom: 如出一口
Pinyin: rú chū yī kǒu
Literal Meaning: As if spoken from one single mouth.
Figurative meaning: It describes a situation where many people give exactly the same statement or opinion; everyone tells the same story, showing complete unanimity in what they say.
Origin
This idiom comes from Han Feizi · Inner Congruences, Lower Part.
The original anecdote: A man from Yan returned home unexpectedly and spotted a man slipping out of his house. He questioned his wife, who denied any visitor. He then asked all the household attendants, and every single one claimed no guest had been there. Their replies were “as if from a single mouth (如出一口)”, all giving identical lies to cover up the truth.
Usage note
It can carry neutral or negative tones. Negatively, it often implies people collude to repeat the same false account. Neutral‑use refers to genuine unanimous viewpoints.
Key Lesson
Unanimity can be a sign of strength – or a sign of control. When everyone says exactly the same thing, it might mean they truly agree. But it might also mean they are afraid to disagree, or that they have been forced to repeat an official line. A healthy society, team, or family values diverse opinions, not forced conformity. If everyone always speaks “as if from one mouth,” it’s time to ask: “Who silenced the others?”
Cultural Note
In traditional Chinese political philosophy, wise rulers were advised to listen to many voices – not just the loudest or closest ones. In modern China, “如出一口” is often used by netizens and commentators to point out when official statements or media reports seem overly coordinated, losing credibility through their perfect uniformity.
Equivalent English expressions
- All tell the same story
- Speak with one voice
- As one man
- Singing from the same hymn sheet
- Parrot the same line
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