机不可失，时不再来 (Jī bù kě shī, shí bù zài lái): Chinese Proverb Meaning
The Chinese proverb 机不可失，时不再来 translates to “Opportunity knocks only once” in English. This timeless saying emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise, as they may never return. Rooted in Chinese culture and philosophy, the proverb encourages individuals to act decisively and make the most of fleeting chances in life. Meaning of the Proverb […]
鹤立鸡群: Chinese Proverb Meaning
The Chinese proverb 鹤立鸡群 (Hèlìjīqún) literally translates to “standing tall among a crowd of chickens.” This colorful image conjures up a scene in which a graceful, majestic crane stands out effortlessly amid a flock of ordinary chickens. The saying is used to describe someone who is notably outstanding, distinguished, or superior in appearance or talent […]
不以物喜，不以己悲 (Bù yǐ wù xǐ, bù yǐ jǐ bēi): Meaning, Origin, and Conversation Examples
The Chinese proverb 不以物喜，不以己悲 (Bù yǐ wù xǐ, bù yǐ jǐ bēi) translates to “Do not let material possessions bring you joy, nor let circumstances bring you sorrow.” It is a profound philosophical statement rooted in ancient Chinese thought, emphasizing emotional balance, detachment from external influences, and a focus on inner stability. In this article, […]
人逢喜事精神爽，心遇悲事泪潺潺 (Rén féng xǐshì jīngshén shuǎng, xīn yù bēishì lèi chánchán): Chinese Proverb Meaning
Translation: Meeting joy, the spirit is exhilarated; encountering sorrow, tears flow freely. This Chinese proverb captures the essence of how our emotions are deeply connected to life’s experiences. When we experience joy or good fortune, our spirits are uplifted and filled with energy. Conversely, when we face sorrow or adversity, tears come naturally as a […]
不怕慢，就怕站 (Bùpà màn, jiù pà zhàn): Chinese Proverb Meaning
The Chinese proverb “不怕慢，就怕站” (Bùpà màn, jiù pà zhàn) translates to “It’s not about being slow, but about standing still.” This proverb conveys a powerful message about the importance of progress, no matter how gradual. It emphasizes that moving forward, even at a slow pace, is far better than staying stagnant and making no effort […]
桃李不言，下自成蹊 (Táolǐ bù yán, xià zì chéng xī): Meaning, Origin, and Conversation Examples
1. Meaning of the Proverb The Chinese proverb 桃李不言，下自成蹊 (Táolǐ bù yán, xià zì chéng xī) translates to “Peach and plum trees do not speak, yet a path is formed beneath them.” This saying emphasizes that a person of true virtue and talent does not need to promote or advertise their worth; their actions and […]
水滴石穿，绳锯木断: Chinese Proverb Meaning
Translation:“Dripping water can penetrate stone; a saw can cut through wood.” Meaning:This Chinese proverb emphasizes the power of persistence and consistency. It teaches that even seemingly small, repetitive actions can have a profound impact over time. Just as water, drop by drop, can erode stone, or a saw, when used repeatedly, can cut through wood, […]
己所不欲，勿施于人 (Jǐ suǒ bù yù, wù shī yú rén): Chinese Proverb Meaning
The Chinese proverb 己所不欲，勿施于人 (Jǐ suǒ bù yù, wù shī yú rén) translates to “Do not do unto others what you would not have them do unto you.” It conveys a principle of empathy and mutual respect, urging people to consider others’ feelings and avoid imposing harm or discomfort that they themselves would not want […]
路遥知马力，日久见人心 (Lù yáo zhī mǎlì, rì jiǔ jiàn rén xīn): Chinese Proverb Meaning
The Chinese proverb “路遥知马力，日久见人心” (Lù yáo zhī mǎlì, rì jiǔ jiàn rén xīn) translates to “Time reveals a horse’s strength and the sincerity of a person’s heart.” This proverb is rich in meaning and reflects a deep cultural appreciation for patience and the revealing power of time. Meaning The proverb uses the metaphor of a […]
三个臭皮匠，顶个诸葛亮 (Sān gè chòu pí jiàng, dǐng gè Zhūgě Liàng): Chinese Proverb Meaning
The Chinese proverb “三个臭皮匠，顶个诸葛亮” translates to “Three humble cobblers together surpass the wisdom of the great Zhuge Liang.” It underscores the value of collective wisdom and teamwork, suggesting that the combined efforts and knowledge of ordinary people can exceed that of even the most esteemed individual. This article explores the meaning behind the proverb, its […]