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. 

一见钟情

Yī jiàn zhōng qíng

“At one sight, feelings arise” 

This idiom most directly connects to the english phrase “Love at first sight”. 

“一” (yī) means one, or oftentimes it is used to express “once” or “as soon as”

“见” (jiàn) means sight, or to see

“钟” （zhōng) means to gather, or to focus on. 钟 most commonly refers to a clock, however in this idiom this character takes on an older meaning.

“情” （qíng) means affection, or love

Together, these characters express “at the first sight, feelings of love began to develop”