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.
