Exploring how traditional idioms continue to play a role and convey wisdom in modern life.

Download the app here:

• Chinese Short Dialogue | Website
• Chinese Short Dialogue | App Store
• Chinese Short Dialogue | Google Play

Available in 8 languages on the app:

Chinese Listening | 중국어 리스닝 | 中国語リスニング | Аудирование по китайскому языку | Nghe tiếng Trung | Mendengarkan bahasa Mandarin | Escucha en chino | การฟังภาษาจีน | Chinesisches Hören | Écoute du chinois | Ascolto cinese | Audição em chinês | चीनी सुनना | الاستماع إلى اللغة الصينية

《English Translation》

小潘: When reading Chinese history books, I often come across four-character phrases like '事半功倍' and '画蛇添足'. They look very special.
刘娜: You’ve discovered a treasure of Chinese — chengyu (idioms)! They are crystallized wisdom passed down from ancient times. For example, '事半功倍' is still used today to praise people who work with high efficiency.
小潘: So idioms are still used! What about '画蛇添足'? I find that story interesting, since snakes don’t have feet.
刘娜: '画蛇添足' is now used to criticize people who do unnecessary things. For example, if your essay is already good and you add content that isn’t needed, I’d say you’re '画蛇添足'.
小潘: Haha, I get it! What about '朝三暮四'? I looked up the story — it’s about monkeys and acorns.
刘娜: Great! But the meaning of '朝三暮四' has changed now. It mainly describes someone who keeps changing their mind, especially someone fickle in relationships. For example, liking one person today and another tomorrow.
小潘: Amazing! Ancient stories can express modern issues. Will learning idioms really make my Chinese more authentic?
刘娜: Of course! Idioms are the essence of Chinese culture. Using them well shows a deep understanding of Chinese. Just make sure to use them in the right context to truly demonstrate your level.