📖 Meaning
This idiom describes something that cannot be expressed or described with words. It is used when emotions, scenes, or sensations are so overwhelming, complex, or indescribable that language fails to capture them.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase traces back to Chapter 14 of the Laozi (Daodejing), where the Dao is described as an endless, unnamable force returning to formlessness. Jin dynasty writer Ge Hong later used the phrase in his 'Shenxian Ji' (Records of Immortals) about Wang Yuan, whose clothing had brilliant patterns unlike any known silk, dazzling the eye in a way that defied description. The expression evolved into a common literary idiom for the indescribable.
💡 Example Usage
面对这片壮丽的雪山，他心中涌起一股不可名状的感动。
Facing this magnificent snow mountain, a surge of indescribable emotion welled up in his heart.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 不可名状
- Pinyin: bù kě míng zhuàng
- Literal Translation: cannot, name, describe, shape
- Category: Condition
- Characters: 4