Popular Chinese Idioms

一帆风顺

yī fān fēng shùn

Smooth sailing with favorable winds

Used to wish someone success in their career or endeavors

守株待兔

shǒu zhū dài tù

Waiting for a rabbit by a tree stump

Criticizes those who stick to rigid methods without adapting to change

掌上明珠

zhǎng shàng míng zhū

Pearl in the palm

Describes a beloved daughter, precious to her parents

万事如意

wàn shì rú yì

May everything go as wished

Used as a blessing during festivals and celebrations

画蛇添足

huà shé tiān zú

Drawing legs on a snake

Describes doing something unnecessary that ruins the effect

对牛弹琴

duì niú tán qín

Playing the lute to a cow

Describes talking to someone who cannot understand or appreciate what you are saying

Popular Categories

Emotions

Idioms describing emotions and psychological states

Life

Idioms describing daily life

Love

Idioms about love and romance

Personality

Idioms describing human character and personality

Relationships

Idioms describing interpersonal relationships

Scenery

Idioms describing natural scenery

User Guide

Search Guide

How to find idioms?

You can find idioms through these methods:

  • Use the search box at the top of the page
  • Browse through categories
  • Click "Browse All" to see the complete list

Search Tips

For better search results:

  • Enter Chinese characters directly
  • Try searching by meaning or category
  • Enter complete idioms for exact matches

Category Guide

How are idioms categorized?

We categorize idioms based on these dimensions:

  • Theme (e.g., life, love, wisdom)
  • Structure (e.g., four-character format, homophones)
  • Source (e.g., historical stories, literary works)

How to use the category system?

You can use the category system through these methods:

  • Click "Categories" in the navigation bar to see all categories
  • Filter search results by specific categories
  • Browse idioms directly through the category pages

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Chinese Idioms (Chengyu)?

Chinese idioms (成语, Chengyu) are four-character expressions that usually tell a story or convey a moral lesson. They are an essential part of Chinese language and culture, often derived from ancient literature, historical events, or folk tales. These concise phrases pack deep meaning and wisdom into just four characters.

Why Learn Chinese Idioms?

Learning Chinese idioms offers multiple benefits:
  • Deeper understanding of Chinese culture and thinking
  • Enhanced communication with native speakers
  • Better appreciation of Chinese literature and media
  • Improved formal and written Chinese
  • Connection with thousands of years of Chinese wisdom

How are Idioms Different from Regular Phrases?

Chinese idioms differ from regular phrases in several ways:
  • Fixed four-character structure
  • Deep cultural or historical background
  • Cannot be literally translated
  • Often used in formal or written contexts
  • Carry specific moral lessons or wisdom

What's the Best Way to Learn Chinese Idioms?

Here are effective strategies for learning Chinese idioms:
  • Start with commonly used idioms
  • Learn the stories behind each idiom
  • Practice using them in context
  • Group similar idioms together
  • Review regularly with example sentences

What are Common Mistakes When Using Chinese Idioms?

Avoid these common mistakes:
  • Using idioms out of context
  • Mixing up similar-sounding idioms
  • Not understanding the cultural context
  • Using too many idioms in casual conversation
  • Incorrect character pronunciation