📖 Meaning
Sweet and gentle words. Used to describe flattering or affectionate language meant to please or persuade someone. The phrase often carries an undertone of insincerity or manipulation through honeyed speech.
📜 Origin Story
Originates from the Song Dynasty ci poet Zhao Changqing (赵长卿), specifically his poem 'Liu Shao Qing' (柳梢青). The line reads: '甜言软语，长记那时，萧娘叮嘱' — 'Sweet words and soft speech, I still remember that time when Xiao Niang gently urged me.' 'Xiao Niang' (萧娘) was a conventional poetic term of endearment for a beloved woman. The poem nostalgically recalls tender moments of affectionate parting words. Over time the phrase became a set idiom for honeyed, gentle speech.
💡 Example Usage
骗子用甜言软语哄骗老人交出积蓄。
The scammer used sweet and gentle words to trick the elderly person into handing over their savings.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 甜言软语
- Pinyin: tián yán ruǎn yǔ
- Literal Translation: sweet, words, soft, speech
- Category: Communication
- Characters: 4