📖 Meaning
Describes the truth or a hidden fact being so completely exposed and obvious that nothing remains concealed. It conveys the image of something held up to the light, leaving no room for doubt or ambiguity.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the Daoist classic 'Zhuangzi' (《庄子》), in the chapter 'Da Sheng' (《达生》). The original line reads: '昭昭乎若揭日月而行也,' describing a sage whose virtue shines as clearly as if he were walking while holding up the sun and moon. The phrase '揭' originally meant 'to hold aloft,' evoking the image of carrying a bright light high for all to see. Over time, the idiom shifted from describing radiant virtue to describing the complete exposure of truth or hidden motives.
💡 Example Usage
他的谎言被一一拆穿，真相昭然若揭。
His lies were exposed one by one, and the truth became glaringly obvious.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 昭然若揭
- Pinyin: zhāo rán ruò jiē
- Literal Translation: bright, thus, as if, raised high
- Category: Clarity
- Characters: 4