Chengyu vs English idioms
Both chengyu (成语) and English idioms compress culture into short phrases, but they behave differently. Use Chinese only for the chengyu; keep explanations, comparisons, and guidance in English.
Chengyu in comparative perspective
Chengyu vs Japanese yojijukugo
Japanese **yojijukugo (四字熟語)** and Chinese **chengyu (成语)** both use compact four-character forms, but they differ in origin, grammar, and frequency. Use Chinese for chengyu and keep explanations, contrasts, and strategy notes in English.
Chengyu vs Korean idioms
Korean **sajaseongeo (사자성어, 四字成語)** and Chinese **chengyu (成语)** share a four-character, Sino-classical core, but they differ in pronunciation, grammar, and frequency. Use Chinese only for the chengyu; give all explanations and strategy notes in English.
Cross-cultural similarities and differences
Chengyu (成语), Japanese yojijukugo (四字熟語), Korean sajaseongeo (四字成語), and English idioms all compress culture into compact phrases. This lesson compares **form, sources, grammar, register, pragmatics, and translation strategies** so you can transfer skills across languages without falling into traps.
Translating chengyu effectively
Translate chengyu (成语) by matching **meaning + tone + register + grammar slot** first, then choosing the shortest natural rendering. Keep the Chinese idiom (with pinyin) visible when the image adds value; otherwise paraphrase cleanly.