Meaning
This character refers to traditional sayings, proverbs, or folk wisdom passed down through generations. It captures pithy expressions that convey cultural values or practical life lessons. The character is rarely used alone in modern Chinese; it typically appears in compound words like 谚语 (yànyǔ, proverb).
Usage
In contemporary usage, 谚 is almost always found in the compound 谚语 rather than standing alone. It's a literary or formal term used when discussing folklore, traditional wisdom, or cultural studies. Native speakers would typically say 谚语 when talking about proverbs in everyday conversation.
Examples
- 01中国有句古谚说：三个臭皮匠，顶个诸葛亮。: , .There's an old Chinese proverb that says: Three cobblers with their wits combined equal Zhuge Liang the master mind.
- 02这句谚语在民间流传了几百年。.This proverb has circulated among the people for several hundred years.
Measure words
- 句一句谚语
- 条一条谚语
Common collocations
- 谚语说as the proverb says
- 民间谚语folk proverb
- 古谚ancient proverb
Origin
The character combines the speech radical 讯/言 (words, speech) with 彦 (yàn, talented person), suggesting wise words or sayings from learned people that are worth remembering and repeating.