📖 Meaning
This idiom describes something that is grand, glorious, and flourishing. It conveys a sense of dazzling prominence and prosperity, often used to characterize a family or institution at the height of its power and influence. The doubled characters emphasize intensity and continuity.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from Ming dynasty playwright Tang Xianzu's celebrated work 'The Peony Pavilion' (牡丹亭), specifically from the scene 'Diagnosing the Illness' (诊崇). In the original text, the line '赫赫扬扬，日出东方' likens the radiant, rising sun to something splendid and magnificent. The idiom was later popularized in Qing dynasty literature, most notably appearing in Cao Xueqin's 'Dream of the Red Chamber' (红楼梦), where it describes the illustrious Jia family enjoying nearly a century of prosperity.
💡 Example Usage
当年那个赫赫扬扬的大家族，如今也只剩下一片荒凉。
That once-glorious and prosperous great family now has nothing left but desolation.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 赫赫扬扬
- Pinyin: hè hè yáng yáng
- Literal Translation: brilliant, brilliant, soaring, soaring
- Category: Status
- Characters: 4