📖 Meaning
Refers to an exceptionally talented person from the southeastern regions of China. It is used to praise someone who stands out as a remarkable figure of ability or virtue in that area.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom originates from the 'Biography of Wang Yun' in the History of the Southern Dynasties (《南史·王筠传》). When Wang Yun was appointed to an official post, he quoted a contemporary saying that Lu Ji (陆平原) was the 'outstanding talent of the southeast' and Wang Wendu (王文度) was 'unmatched in Jiangdong.' Wang Yun expressed contentment that he could follow in the footsteps of such distinguished predecessors. The phrase subsequently became a set expression for praising exceptional individuals hailing from China's southeastern provinces.
💡 Example Usage
他是东南之秀，文学造诣令人叹服。
He is an outstanding talent of the southeast, whose literary accomplishments command deep admiration.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 东南之秀
- Pinyin: dōng nán zhī xiù
- Literal Translation: east, south, of, outstanding talent
- Category: Quality
- Characters: 4