📖 Meaning
Describes someone who appears energetic, radiant, and full of vitality. It conveys a glowing, spirited demeanor that suggests robust health and inner vigor. Often used to praise a person's vibrant and refreshed appearance.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase traces to the Ming Dynasty writer Shen Defu's work 'Wanli Yehuobian' (Unofficial Gleanings of the Wanli Era), in a section discussing calligraphy. Shen described a copy of the Cao E Stele attributed to the legendary calligrapher Wang Xizhi, noting that although the silk had darkened and the characters appeared faint, upon close inspection the brushwork's spirit shone through brilliantly — 'shen cai yi ran.' Over time the phrase evolved to describe people whose bearing radiates energy and vitality.
💡 Example Usage
休养了几天后，他又恢复了神采奕奕的模样。
After a few days of rest, he regained his radiant and energetic appearance.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 神采奕奕
- Pinyin: shén cǎi yì yì
- Literal Translation: spirit, bearing, brilliant, brilliant
- Category: Condition
- Characters: 4