Meaning
神仙 refers to immortal beings in Chinese mythology and Daoist tradition who have achieved supernatural powers and eternal life. These celestial beings are often depicted living in heavenly realms, possessing magical abilities, and sometimes intervening in human affairs. In modern usage, it can also describe someone living a carefree, enviable lifestyle.
Usage
Used in both literal mythological contexts and colloquially to describe someone whose life seems perfect or effortless (像神仙一样). Common in fantasy literature, traditional stories, and everyday expressions of envy or admiration. Can refer to both male and female immortals, though specific terms like 仙女 (female immortal) also exist.
Examples
- 01中国古代神话中有很多神仙的故事。.There are many stories about immortals in ancient Chinese mythology.
- 02退休以后，他每天喝茶下棋，过得像神仙一样。, , .After retirement, he drinks tea and plays chess every day, living like an immortal.
Characters
Measure words
- 位一位神仙
- 个一个神仙
Common collocations
- 像神仙一样like an immortal (living carefree)
- 神仙眷侣immortal couple (ideal romantic pair)
- 活神仙living like an immortal (carefree life)
- 神仙姐姐fairy sister (beautiful woman)
Antonyms
Origin
The term combines 神 (deity/spirit) and 仙 (immortal), with 仙 originally depicting a person on a mountain in oracle bone script, reflecting Daoist beliefs that immortals lived in remote mountainous regions practicing cultivation.