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March 24, 2026
一帆风顺(一帆風順)yìfānfēngshùn(yi4fan1feng1shun4)
一帆风顺 (yī fān fēng shùn) is an idiom that expresses the wish for things to go smoothly, especially during a journey or new endeavor. It literally means 'with a sail and favorable winds', indicating a journey that encounters no obstacles and proceeds without difficulty.
Strokes20Frequency#15056DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, wishing someone 一帆风顺 is a common practice during events such as graduations or new job beginnings, reflecting a cultural emphasis on smooth progress and auspicious beginnings.
Memory Tip
Imagine a boat with a single sail (一帆) gliding effortlessly across a calm sea, propelled by a gentle breeze (风顺). Visualize the sailor smiling, knowing that the winds are perfectly in their favor, making the journey smooth and enjoyable.
Meanings of 一帆风顺
yìfānfēngshùn(yi4fan1feng1shun4)
1propitious wind throughout the journey (idiom)
2plain sailing
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About 一帆风顺
一帆风顺Simplified
一帆風順Traditional
20Strokes
—Radical
成语chéngyǔidiom (id.)Part of Speech
#15056Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L6AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 一帆风顺
Podcast: 一帆风顺
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AI Study Notes for 一帆风顺
Usage Notes
This idiom is often used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly when wishing someone success in their endeavors. A common mistake is to use it inappropriately for situations that are not about journeys; it should be reserved for contexts where success and ease are desired.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 idiom, 一帆风顺 connects well with other expressions of good wishes and success. Focus on understanding its usage in context, and practice incorporating it into conversations about travel or new ventures.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse this idiom's usage by applying it to situations that involve difficulties. For instance, saying '一帆风顺' after a setback would be incorrect; rather, it should be used in positive contexts only.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 一帆风顺
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How to say propitious wind throughout the journey (idiom) in Chinese
“propitious wind throughout the journey (idiom)” in Chinese is一帆风顺yìfānfēngshùn
一帆风顺 (yī fān fēng shùn) is an idiom that expresses the wish for things to go smoothly, especially during a journey or new endeavor. It literally means 'with a sail and favorable winds', indicating a journey that encounters no obstacles and proceeds without difficulty.
When to use 一帆风顺
This idiom is often used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly when wishing someone success in their endeavors. A common mistake is to use it inappropriately for situations that are not about journeys; it should be reserved for contexts where success and ease are desired.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse this idiom's usage by applying it to situations that involve difficulties. For instance, saying '一帆风顺' after a setback would be incorrect; rather, it should be used in positive contexts only.
Write 一帆风顺
一
帆
风
顺
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Grammar Patterns of 一帆风顺
一帆风顺 functions as a four-character idiom (成语). Treat it as a fixed unit; it usually plays the role of a single adjective, adverb, or noun phrase inside the larger sentence. It carries 4 related meanings, each with its own usage notes below. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.