📖 Meaning
To see widely and hear much. It describes a person whose knowledge and experience are extensive and well-rounded. The term emphasizes having broad exposure through both observation and learning.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the Tang dynasty writer Yang Jiong (杨炯), specifically from his inscription on the spirit way stele for Li Chucai, magistrate of Baiquan County. In praising Li Chucai's talents and learning, Yang Jiong wrote that he could harmonize the eight tones and master the ninefold music, and that his broad knowledge was like opening five carts of books and reciting three chests of texts. The phrase has since been used to praise those with extensive learning and worldly experience.
💡 Example Usage
他一生游历四方，广见洽闻，对各地风土人情颇有心得。
Having traveled widely throughout his life and seen much of the world, he had genuine insight into the customs and ways of various regions.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 广见洽闻
- Pinyin: guǎng jiàn qià wén
- Literal Translation: broad, see, extensive, hear
- Category: Knowledge
- Characters: 4