Beyond Translations

成语

Chéng yǔ

Idioms

Idioms are phrases and expressions that have figurative meanings that differ from the literal meanings of the words. Understanding idioms is instrumental to mastering a language as it allows you to speak with more nuance and have a better understanding of the culture of the language you are learning. Mandarin consists of thousands of these 成语, and each phrase has its own story, that reveals a key element of Chinese culture. 

Beyond Translations will introduce a new idiom each week as part of our mission to create better cultural understanding. 

爱屋及乌

ài wū jí wū

“Love for one’s house reaches to the crows on the roof”

This Chinese idiom essentially means that when you love someone or something enough, you are willing to accept any flaws that person or thing may have. 

The idiom dates back to the Warring States Period, where it was written in texts, emphasizing that deep love for something spreads over all aspects of that thing. The crow represents an undesirable bird, especially if it is nesting on your roof. However, if you love your house enough you will end up loving the crows on the roof because they are a part of the house. 

The original meaning of the phrase was referring to romantic partnerships, however in more modern times the idiom has been used to reflect embracing friends and family even if some aspects of them are a bit “undesirable” sometimes. 

This idiom can teach us to look for the best in each other. If we can do this, our relationships will strengthen and we will learn to live with our differences, without letting them form a gap in our connections.