Popular Chinese Proverbs and Idioms

We say a lot about ourselves in the words we use to describe thoughts and behavior in various circumstances. Proverbs and idioms provide insight into social culture. This column introduces our readers to some of the most widely used colloquial sayings, both pithy and witty, that appear in Chinese daily conversation and writing. Many originate from centuries-old classic novels and poems; others spring from popular folklore. And some of them are very similar to common sayings in English.

We say a lot about ourselves in the words we use to describe thoughts and behavior in various circumstances. Proverbs and idioms provide insight into social culture. This column introduces our readers to some of the most widely used colloquial sayings, both pithy and witty, that appear in Chinese daily conversation and writing. Many originate from centuries-old classic novels and poems; others spring from popular folklore. And some of them are very similar to common sayings in English.

Flower growing in cow dung, old ox grazing on young grass - Art & Culture in China

Flower growing in cow dung, old ox grazing on young grass

Social prejudices about gaps in age, social status or education can define couples as “mismatched.”

Lighting a candle for a blind man, adding legs to a snake - Art & Culture in China

Lighting a candle for a blind man, adding legs to a snake

Truncated witticisms point out how we often waste our time on superfluous activities.

The Eight Immortals cross the sea by invoking divine powers - Art & Culture in China

The Eight Immortals cross the sea by invoking divine powers

Everyone has something to contribute. There is strength in numbers.

2023-11-17 16:09 0

When the tree topples, the monkeys run away - Art & Culture in China

When the tree topples, the monkeys run away

People may stick by you in good times, but beware their allegiance when things turn sour.

2023-11-17 15:58 0

The itinerant barber survives in proverb but not in person - Art & Culture in China

The itinerant barber survives in proverb but not in person

Carrying a torch or unrequited love can be ill-fated wishful thinking.

2023-11-03 16:05 0

Stubborn mules often run headlong into a wall - Art & Culture in China

Stubborn mules often run headlong into a wall

Some people just can’t be persuaded that a course of action will end in failure.

2023-11-03 15:56 0

The squeaky wheel gets oiled, the crying baby gets milk - Art & Culture in China

The squeaky wheel gets oiled, the crying baby gets milk

Being too acquiescent can work against your best interests. Speak up and be heard!

2023-10-27 15:43 0

'A snake wanting to swallow an elephant' can never be content - Art & Culture in China

'A snake wanting to swallow an elephant' can never be content

Some people are just never satisfied. When they get what they want, they always crave more.

2023-10-27 15:27 0

Misfortune may be a blessing in disguise. Who's to say? - Art & Culture in China

Misfortune may be a blessing in disguise. Who's to say?

Ancient tale of a man, his mare and a crippled son suggests that every cloud has a silver lining if you look for it.

2023-10-20 15:51 0

Sometimes the best course is to let nature take its course - Art & Culture in China

Sometimes the best course is to let nature take its course

You may fail even if you strive to achieve something, or you may achieve something by happenstance.

2023-10-20 15:45 0

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