📖 Meaning
Originally described the rapid, urgent gong and drum playing that precedes the opening of a theatrical performance. It is now used metaphorically to describe intense, tense preparations being made before a public event or major activity. The phrase conveys a sense of urgency and concentrated effort.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the novel 'Mountain Valley Wind and Smoke' (山谷风烟) by the modern Chinese writer Chen Canyun, published in the mid-20th century. In Chapter 18, a character warns another that the village is conducting an intense, urgent investigation into some suspected conspiracy, urging caution. The expression draws on the traditional Chinese opera convention of playing rapid gongs and drums to signal the imminent start of a performance, evoking a feeling of heightened anticipation and pressing activity.
💡 Example Usage
运动会的各项筹备工作正在密锣紧鼓地进行着。
Preparations for the sports meet are proceeding in an intense and urgent manner.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 密锣紧鼓
- Pinyin: mì luó jǐn gǔ
- Literal Translation: dense gong, tight drum
- Category: Action
- Characters: 4