Chengyu: The Poetry of Chinese Idioms

Many chengyu are derived from ancient stories, myths, and historical events. For example, the idiom "画蛇添足" (huà shé tiān zú), which means "to draw a snake and add feet," comes from a story about a man who ruined his work by adding unnecessary details.

Learning chengyu is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and history. Each idiom is a window into the past, offering a glimpse into the values, beliefs, and stories that have shaped Chinese civilization.

Chengyu are not just for scholars and poets; they are used in everyday conversation by people from all walks of life. They add color and depth to the language, and they are a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.