idiom / verb phrase HSK 6
Traditional 名實相符
the name matches the reality · to live up to one's reputation · worthy of the name
Meaning
This chengyu expresses that something or someone truly lives up to their name or reputation. It indicates consistency between appearance/reputation (名) and actual substance/reality (实). When used positively, it means deserved fame; when negated, it suggests false reputation.
Usage
Commonly used in formal writing and speech to evaluate whether people, products, or places deserve their reputation. Often appears in reviews, assessments, and critiques. Can be negated as 名不副实 (míng bù fù shí) to mean the opposite.
Examples
- 01这家餐厅确实名实相符，菜品质量和服务都非常出色。, .This restaurant truly lives up to its reputation; both the food quality and service are excellent.
- 02他的演讲水平名实相符，不愧是著名的演说家。, .His speaking ability matches his reputation; he's worthy of being called a famous orator.
Characters
Common collocations
- 名实相符的产品a product that lives up to its reputation
- 确实名实相符truly lives up to the name
Antonyms
Origin
Classical idiom combining 名 (name/reputation) and 实 (reality/substance) with 相符 (to match mutually). Reflects Confucian emphasis on the rectification of names (正名) where words should match reality.