Chinese Idioms / 中国成语-Chinese Idiom Explorer

Example

For the idiom 杯弓蛇影 (bēi gōng shé yǐng), meaning 'seeing a bow's reflection in a cup as a snake,' symbolizing unnecessary fear or suspicion, we provide an in-depth explanation of its origin from a tale about a man who mistook a bow's reflection for a snake, causing unwarranted fear.

Scenario

Useful in literary studies or cultural discussions, helping users understand the idiomatic expression's roots and its application in illustrating paranoia or groundless fears.

Example

For the idiom 井底之蛙 (jǐng dǐ zhī wā), meaning 'a frog in a well,' we illustrate its use in modern contexts to describe someone with a limited perspective or narrow-mindedness.

Scenario

Helpful for language learners and writers seeking to enrich their expressions or for speakers aiming to convey complex ideas succinctly in speeches or writings.

Example

Identifying idioms with similar themes, such as 前车之鉴 (qián chē zhī jiàn) for learning from past mistakes, or opposite in meaning, such as 盲人瞎马 (máng rén xiā mǎ) indicating reckless action without guidance.

Scenario

Beneficial for advanced learners or educators looking to explore idiomatic expressions in greater depth, enhancing comparative language studies or creative writing.

Example

After discussing the idiom 指鹿为马 (zhǐ lù wéi mǎ), meaning 'calling a deer a horse' to illustrate deliberate misrepresentation, we suggest related idioms like 狐假虎威 (hú jiǎ hǔ wēi) for further exploration on themes of deceit.

Scenario

Ideal for continuous learners and enthusiasts aiming to delve deeper into the richness of Chinese idiomatic expressions and their interconnections.