Chinese Idioms

  • Wēi Rú Lěi Luǎn (危如累卵)

    Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 危如累卵Pinyin: wēi rú lěi luǎnLiteral Meaning: As dangerous as eggs piled one on top of another.Figurative Meaning: A situation is extremely precarious and likely to collapse or fail at any moment. Extended Background & Usage Notes This ancient Chinese idiom uses a vivid visual metaphor. Stacking eggs is extremely unstable…

  • Chún Wáng Chǐ Hán (唇亡齿寒)

    Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 唇亡齿寒Pinyin: chún wáng chǐ hánLiteral Meaning: When the lips are gone, the teeth will feel cold.Figurative Meaning: Two things or parties are closely connected; if one suffers harm, the other will be affected too. It describes an interdependent relationship with shared interests and risks. Extended Background & Usage Notes This…

  • Lǎo Mǎ Shí Tú (老马识途)

    Basic Information Chinese idiom: 老马识途Pinyin: lǎo mǎ shí túLiteral Meaning: An old horse knows the way it has traveled before.Figurative Meaning: Experienced people, just like old horses, can judge directions correctly and handle things skillfully thanks to rich life experience. It praises seniors or veterans for their wisdom gained from long‑term practice. Extended Background…

  • Huān Tiān Xǐ Dì (欢天喜地)

    Basic Information Chinese idiom: 欢天喜地 Pinyin: huān tiān xǐ dì Literal Meaning: Joy filling heaven and earth Figurative Meaning: To be extremely delighted, overjoyed, or thoroughly happy Extended Background & Usage Notes This is a widely used positive Chinese idiom. It vividly depicts an intense, unrestrained sense of happiness that spreads widely, describing individuals…

  • Chinese Idioms: Wisdom in Four Words

    Chinese idioms, called chéngyǔ (成语), are concise phrases packed with cultural wisdom. Most consist of just four characters but convey vivid stories, historical lessons, or philosophical ideas. All Chinese idioms have their own original story and express a particular meaning. They are essential for mastering advanced Chinese and understanding Chinese culture.