{"id":27321,"date":"2021-10-07T10:55:19","date_gmt":"2021-10-07T14:55:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.pimsleur.com\/?p=27321"},"modified":"2025-10-04T17:26:48","modified_gmt":"2025-10-04T21:26:48","slug":"chinese-idioms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pimsleur.com\/blog\/chinese-idioms\/","title":{"rendered":"Chinese Idioms with Numbers to Level-Up Your Mandarin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Every language has its idioms \u2013 unique word combinations that, taken at face value, mean something different than what they\u2019re actually referencing. And with Mandarin Chinese, one of the world\u2019s great historical languages, with roots going back thousands of years, the list of Chinese idioms has grown like few other spoken tongues.
The impressive Mandarin linguistic legacy \u2013 fueled by poets, philosophers, statesmen, political leaders, emperors, explorers, and more \u2013 has given the world what\u2019s known as Chinese chengyu. These common Chinese idioms are natural for Mandarin speakers, but for those learning Mandarin<\/a>, they can be challenging to learn!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chinese<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Chinese Chengyu: China\u2019s Unique Take on Idioms<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Idioms are expressions that don\u2019t have a direct literal translation. They\u2019re like riddles\u2014to understand them, you need to understand the context as well as the words. And since Mandarin Chinese encompasses so many regional cultures, each with its own unique history, Chinese chengyu comprises one of the most extensive collections of idioms you\u2019ll find in any language. They\u2019re one of the most fun parts of learning a language because they give you a window into the culture as well. Chinese idioms, in particular, are an underrated way for new language learners to discover interesting knowledge about China, its people, and its history. If you really want to learn Mandarin, get your list of Chinese idioms ready!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are Chinese Idioms?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Chinese is a complex language and is filled to the brim with idiomatic expressions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chinese idioms (aka. \u6210\u8a9e, ch\u00e9ng y\u01d4) are typically four characters that together express a figurative meaning. They have been woven together over thousands of years from ancient myths, tales, philosophical texts, and poetry. Many represent longer stories that are condensed into succinct characters to depict a part of the narrative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another common trait with Chinese idioms is they usually don\u2019t follow the typical subject-object-verb structure of most Mandarin sentences, making Chinese chengyu even more of an enigma than they already are! 
You\u2019ll hear them everywhere, from regular conversation to Chinese historical, palace dramas<\/a> on TV. All Mandarin speakers know some ch\u00e9ng y\u01d4, but using them in daily conversations can help you stand out and appear eloquent and cultured!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chinese Idioms: Essential Chengyu and Their Meanings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We\u2019ve compiled a baker\u2019s dozen right here, with some of the most famous Chinese idioms. 
While knowing about idioms is not required to master Mandarin, learning about them provides fascinating context into the rich linguistic heritage of the Mandarin language. And as you acquire them, you\u2019ll find that some of the most common Chinese idioms have a decidedly uncommon origin story! Check out this Chinese chengyu list:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. \u4e00\u843d\u5343\u4e08 (<\/strong>y\u012b lu\u00f2 qi\u0101n zh\u00e0ng<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: One fall, a thousand feet.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Figuratively, this saying means that one mistake or fault can result in disastrous consequences. For instance, \u201che made a wrong move and his performance has y\u012b lu\u00f2 qi\u0101n zh\u00e0ng<\/em> since then.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. \u4e8c\u8bdd\u4e0d\u8bf4 (<\/strong>\u00e8r hu\u00e0 b\u00f9 shu\u014d<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Second word, not said.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This saying means to act quickly without saying another word. Basically, without delay or without further ado.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. \u4e09\u5fc3\u4e8c\u610f (<\/strong>s\u0101n x\u012bn \u00e8r y\u00ec<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Three minds, two intents. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This one means being half-hearted, being of two minds, or being hesitant. It is often used to describe someone who has difficulties focusing on something or who is indecisive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. \u56db\u9762\u516b\u65b9 (<\/strong>s\u00ec mi\u00e0n b\u0101 f\u0101ng<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Four sides, eight directions.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This one is similar to the English idiom \u201cfour corners of the Earth,\u201d it means from all around, from far and near, or in all directions. For instance, \u201cthe enemy surrounded them from s\u00ec mi\u00e0n b\u0101 f\u0101ng<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. \u4e94\u989c\u516d\u8272 (<\/strong>w\u01d4 y\u00e1n li\u00f9 s\u00e8<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Five colors, six colors. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This saying is used to describe something as very colorful, but it can also refer to something that has a variety of devices or patterns. For instance, \u201crainbows are w\u01d4 y\u00e1n li\u00f9 s\u00e8.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. \u516d\u6839\u6e05\u51c0<\/strong> (li\u00f9 g\u0113n q\u012bng j\u00ecng<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Six roots, peaceful. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This idiom makes a reference to the six roots of sensations in Buddhism<\/a>\u2014the eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind. It suggests that these are peaceful, pure, or clean. In other words, it describes a sense or state of peacefulness that is free of desires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. \u4e03\u5634\u516b\u820c (<\/strong>q\u012b zu\u01d0 b\u0101 sh\u00e9<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Seven mouths, eight tongues. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This saying is somewhat similar to the English idiom \u201cat sixes and sevens<\/a>,\u201d which means confusion or disarray. The Chinese version is used to refer to a situation that is noisy, in which many people are talking at once, or that is full of lively discussion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8. \u516b\u9762\u73b2\u73d1 (<\/strong>b\u0101 mi\u00e0n l\u00edng l\u00f3ng<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Eight sides, exquisite\/delicate. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This one is a bit more complex because its meaning has shifted over time. Originally, it was used to describe a spacious and well-lit area. Now, it is more often used to describe someone who is diplomatic, smooth, and adept in establishing social relations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9. \u4e5d\u725b\u4e00\u6bdb (<\/strong>ji\u01d4 ni\u00fa y\u012b m\u00e1o<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Nine cows, one strand of cow hair. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This idiom is used to refer to something very small that you wouldn\u2019t notice. It\u2019s very visual: The idea is that you would hardly notice a single strand of cow hair among nine cows. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

10. \u5341\u5168\u5341\u7f8e<\/strong> (sh\u00ed qu\u00e1n sh\u00ed m\u011bi<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Ten, entirety, ten, beauty.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This idiom is used to describe something that is flawless and perfect. You can also use it to describe a person\u2014it\u2019s a compliment!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11. \u767e\u5e74\u597d\u5408 (<\/strong>b\u01cei ni\u00e1n h\u01ceo h\u00e9<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Hundred years, good union. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This idiom is often used to congratulate couples at weddings. It\u2019s a wish that they have a harmonious union\u2014not just for a hundred years, but forever!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12. \u5343\u771f\u4e07\u786e (<\/strong>qi\u0101n zh\u0113n w\u00e0n qu\u00e8<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Thousand real, ten thousand true. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This idiom is used to emphasize that something is really, surely, absolutely true. Use it to underscore how confident you are with what you are presenting!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

13. \u4e07\u65e0\u4e00\u5931 (<\/strong>w\u00e0n w\u00fa y\u012b sh\u012b<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Literal translation: Ten thousand, not one mistake. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This idiom is used in a similar way to how we might say something is \u201cfoolproof\u201d in English. You use it to express that you are very confident that there is no way something will go wrong or fail. The idea is that even if something would happen ten thousand times, there wouldn\u2019t be a single failure or mistake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bonus Chinese Chengyu<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Aside from the idioms presented in the Chinese Chengyu list above, there are plenty of other sayings popular in everyday Mandarin speech. You\u2019ll recognize some of these, as they\u2019re frequently used in English:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. \u719f\u80fd\u751f\u5de7 (<\/strong>Sh\u00fan\u00e9ngsh\u0113ngqi\u01ceo<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong>
    Literal translation: <\/strong>Practice makes perfect.<\/strong> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Like in English, this means the more you practice, the better you become at something.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    1. \u5bb6\u55bb\u6237\u6653 (<\/strong>Ji\u0101y\u00f9h\u00f9xi\u01ceo<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong>
      Literal translation: Known in every household. <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      This is somewhat similar to the English sentiment behind \u201ca household name;\u201d in other words, something well-known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      1. \u4e00\u65e5\u5343\u79cb (<\/strong>Y\u012b r\u00ec qi\u0101nqi\u016b<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong>
        Literal translation: One day feels like a thousand autumns<\/strong>. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        This is used to express intense longing or impatience. It communicates the sensation of time passing more slowly when you yearn for something deeply; one day can feel as long as a thousand years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        1. \u753b\u9f99\u70b9\u775b (<\/strong>Hu\u00e0 l\u00f3ng di\u01cenj\u012bng<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong>
          Literal translation: Add eyes when painting a dragon<\/strong>. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

          This saying emphasizes the importance of adding the proper finishing touch in order to make something transform from good to extraordinary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            \n
          1. \u6613\u5982\u53cd\u638c (<\/strong>Y\u00ec r\u00fa f\u01cen zh\u01ceng<\/em><\/strong>)<\/strong>
            Literal translation: Easier than turning over your hand<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

            This is used to describe something effortless or simple. It is similar to the English sayings, \u201ca piece of cake\u201d or \u201cas easy as ABC.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \n
            1. \u676f\u6c34\u8f66\u85aa (<\/strong>b\u0113i shu\u01d0 ch\u0113 x\u012bn<\/em>) <\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

              Literal translation: A cup of water (to put out) a cartload of firewood.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              This means, like using a cup of water to put out a whole fire, the solution to the problem is inadequate or futile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                \n
              1. \u63a9\u8033\u76d7\u94c3 (<\/strong>y\u01cen \u011br d\u00e0o l\u00edng<\/em>) <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

                Literal translation: Cover one\u2019s ears while stealing a bell<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                This means you\u2019re deceiving yourself thinking others won\u2019t hear something if you can\u2019t hear it. In other words, it describes someone who is acting foolishly or irrationally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  \n
                1. \u4e00\u76ee\u5341\u884c (<\/strong>y\u012b m\u00f9 sh\u00ed h\u00e1ng<\/em>) <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

                  Literal translation: One glance, ten lines.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  This refers to the ability to read extremely fast, taking in multiple lines at a time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    \n
                  1. \u4e09\u4eba\u884c\uff0c\u5fc5\u6709\u6211\u5e08<\/strong> (s\u0101n r\u00e9n x\u00edng, b\u00ec y\u01d2u w\u01d2 sh\u012b<\/em>) <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

                    Literal translation: From the Analects of Confucius, this translates to when three people walk together, there must be one who can be my teacher.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    This idiom expresses humility and reminds us that there is something to learn from everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Incorporating Chengyu to Enrich Your Mandarin Skills<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

                    Idioms are a fantastic way to learn any language, but they\u2019re an especially good way to learn Mandarin Chinese<\/a>. They can help you see how closely expressions are tied to Chinese culture<\/a> and history.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Now it\u2019s your turn! Try to start dropping some of the above Chinese idioms into everyday conversation to practice speaking in Mandarin. Your friends will be impressed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Need a headstart? Pimsleur can give you the tools you need to master Chinese. Begin your Mandarin Chinese language journey today!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                    Every language has its idioms \u2013 unique word combinations that, taken at face value, mean something different than what they\u2019re actually referencing. And with Mandarin Chinese, one of the world\u2019s great historical languages, with roots going back thousands of years, the list of Chinese idioms has grown like few other spoken tongues.The impressive Mandarin linguistic Read More >><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":45,"featured_media":27330,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,3],"tags":[2412,6570,58],"class_list":["post-27321","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-culture","category-language-learning","tag-asia","tag-chinese","tag-language-learning-2"],"yoast_head":"\nChinese Idioms: Essential Chengyu and Their Meanings<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"From ancient wisdom to modern use, this guide to Chinese idioms (Chengyu) explores common phrases and their meanings to elevate your Mandarin skills. 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