📖 Meaning
A metaphor describing calligraphy or writing that is vigorous, bold, and powerfully unrestrained. It evokes the dynamic energy of a dragon leaping and a tiger crouching, conveying strength and vitality in brushwork.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom originates from 'Gu Jin Shu Ping' (Critiques of Ancient and Modern Calligraphy) by Yuan Ang of the Liang dynasty during the Southern Dynasties. In evaluating the calligraphy of Xiao Sihua, Yuan Ang wrote that his brushwork flowed continuously, with the characters' posture being forceful and unyielding, like a dragon leaping at the Heavenly Gate and a tiger crouching in the Phoenix Pavilion. The vivid imagery was used to praise the majestic and vigorous quality of Xiao's calligraphy.
💡 Example Usage
这幅书法笔力遒劲，龙跳虎卧，堪称佳作。
This calligraphy piece has vigorous brushwork, with the dynamic force of a leaping dragon and crouching tiger, truly a masterpiece.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 龙跳虎卧
- Pinyin: lóng tiào hǔ wò
- Literal Translation: dragon, leap, tiger, crouch
- Category: Skill
- Characters: 4