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Chinese Proverbs with Pinyin
Every entry includes Chinese characters, tone-marked pinyin, a plain-pinyin search form, literal translation, natural meaning, and an example sentence. Use the audio button as a pronunciation aid, then compare it with a native model when possible.
千里之行，始于足下
Every large achievement starts with one practical first step.
life
塞翁失马，焉知非福
An apparent misfortune may lead to an unexpected benefit.
life
滴水穿石
Small, repeated efforts can overcome a formidable obstacle.
success
吃一堑，长一智
A mistake or setback can teach a valuable lesson.
learning
熟能生巧
Repeated practice develops fluency and mastery.
learning
众人拾柴火焰高
Collective effort produces a stronger result than isolated work.
friendship
近朱者赤，近墨者黑
The people and environment around us shape our character and habits.
friendship
路遥知马力，日久见人心
True ability and character become clear through time and difficulty.
friendship
未雨绸缪
Prepare for trouble before it arrives.
business
知足常乐
Recognizing what is enough brings lasting peace and happiness.
life
温故而知新
Revisiting prior knowledge can produce fresh understanding.
learning
读万卷书，行万里路
Deep learning combines books with direct experience of the world.
learning