Embracing Wisdom: Top 10 Inspiring Chinese Proverbs about Learning and Education

10 Inspiring Chinese Proverbs about Learning

Date Updated: May 4, 2022

Oksana Ermolaeva

Express Yourself in Mandarin Through the Wisdom of Study and Education

The history of education in China traces back to as early as the 16th century B.C., when learning Confucianism was essential for social advancement. The ancient Chinese had to study diligently to prepare for government examinations, which were crucial for securing high-ranking governmental positions. This tradition still holds significant weight today with Gaokao, widely recognized as one of the most challenging pre-entrance tests worldwide.

With education being such a fundamental aspect throughout Chinese history, it's no surprise that the Mandarin language is rich in idioms and sayings that celebrate and emphasize learning. Below are ten of my favorite expressions:

Like many languages, the Chinese vocabulary includes metaphorical phrases comparing studying to overcoming daunting challenges or navigating unpredictable scenarios.

1. 学如登山。 Xua ru deng shan. – Studying is like climbing a mountn.

   Factually true!

2. 学如逆水行舟，不进则退。 Xue ru ni shui xing zhou, bu jin ze tui. – Studying is akin to rowing agnst the current; one must advance or be swept downstream.

3. 道山学海。 Dao shan xue h. – Learning encompasses mountns and seas alikeliterally, Mountn of Dao, Sea of Knowledge. Dao represents 'the way' or 'principles', implying that achieving oneness with it necessitates a vast ocean of knowledge.

An old proverb tells us:

4. 玉不琢，不成器。 Yu bu zhuo, bu cheng qi. – One cannot become useful without being educated; in other words, if jade is unrefined, it remns valueless.

Confucius, a renowned Chinese philosopher and teacher whose teachings continue to influence the world today, has left behind many wise sayings about learning:

5. 三人行，必有我师。 Sanren xing, biyou wo shi – In any group of three people, there is one who can teach me something.

The Confucian canon contns this profound statement:

6. 学以致用。 Xue yi zhi yong – Learning should be followed by application.

Emphasizing the importance of practicality in today's world:

7. 为时不晚。 Wei shi bu wan – It is never too late to learn, grow, and improve.

To delve deeper into Chinese proverbs, you may explore corresponding articles on our site for more insights.

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Oksana Ermolaeva

Oksana Ermolaeva is a freelance writer, editor, and translator from Russia. She has an affinity for learning new languages and cultures; her particular passion lies in Chinese studies.

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