洋洋大观

yáng yáng dà guān
Literal: "vast, vast, grand, spectacle"

📖 Meaning

A magnificent and spectacular sight. It describes a rich, diverse, and abundant display of fine things, evoking a sense of grandeur and overwhelming variety.

📜 Origin Story

The phrase traces back to the Daoist text Zhuangzi, in the chapter 'Heaven and Earth' (《庄子·天地》), where the Dao is described as that which covers and sustains all things, 'vast and grand indeed' (洋洋乎大哉). Over time, the expression was condensed into the four-character idiom 洋洋大观, used to characterize scenes or collections of remarkable abundance and splendor. It is commonly applied to art, literature, exhibitions, and any gathering of numerous noteworthy items.

💡 Example Usage

这场艺术展览汇集了各国大师的精品,令人觉得洋洋大观。

This art exhibition gathers masterpieces from around the world, presenting a truly magnificent and varied spectacle.

🏷️ Category

➕ Similar Idioms

➖ Opposite Idioms

🔤 Quick Facts

  • Chinese: 洋洋大观
  • Pinyin: yáng yáng dà guān
  • Literal Translation: vast, vast, grand, spectacle
  • Category: Variety
  • Characters: 4