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名副其实 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
名副其实míngfùqíshínot just in name only, but also in reality (idiom)HSK 7, i, 33 strokes, rank #14085, Very Hard
míngfùqíshí(ming2fu4qi2shi2)ming fu qi shi T2
  1. 1not just in name only, but also in reality (idiom)
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March 24, 2026

名副其实(名副其實)míngfùqíshí(ming2fu4qi2shi2)

The idiom 名副其实 (míng fù qí shí) describes a situation where something is accurately represented by its name or label, meaning it is genuine and true to its essence. It is commonly used in contexts where one wants to affirm that something lives up to its reputation or description, emphasizing authenticity.

Strokes33Frequency#14085DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

In Chinese culture, authenticity is highly valued, particularly in business and personal relationships. The concept of 名副其实 supports the cultural emphasis on integrity and trust, reflecting the importance of being true to one's word.

Memory tip

Imagine a name tag that not only states a person’s title but also matches their true abilities. The character 名 (míng) means 'name,' 副 (fù) means 'to assist or be subordinate,' 其 (qí) suggests 'its,' and 实 (shí) means 'real or true.' Visualize a name tag that comes to life, showing that the person truly embodies what their title suggests.

Meanings of 名副其实

míngfùqíshí(ming2fu4qi2shi2)
1not just in name only, but also in reality (idiom)
Exercise 1 of 2

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About 名副其实

名副其实Simplified
名副其實Traditional
33Strokes
—Radical
成语chéngyǔidiom (id.)Part of Speech
#14085Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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Podcast: 名副其实

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AI study notes for 名副其实

Quick Contrast

名副其实 vs 名不副实 (míng bù fù shí): Use 名副其实 when affirming authenticity and accuracy, while 名不副实 indicates that something does not live up to its name.

Usage Notes

Be cautious with the tone when pronouncing this idiom, as incorrect tones can change its meaning. It is often used in formal discussions or written evaluations, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include ‘名副其实的评价’ (a true evaluation) or ‘名副其实的效果’ (a genuine effect).

HSK Study Tips

As an HSK 6 level idiom, 名副其实 connects well with other expressions of authenticity and truthfulness. Students should focus on contextual usage and ensure they understand when to apply it appropriately in both spoken and written Mandarin.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse this idiom with similar expressions, leading to incorrect usage. For example, saying ‘名副假实’ instead of ‘名副其实’ blends incorrect meanings. Always use the correct form to maintain its intended meaning.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 名副其实

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Idiom spotlight: 名副其实

Chengyu origin story
Literal meaning:name match reality

Component characters

名míngname
HSK 26 strokes口
View full entry
副fùsecondary
HSK 511 strokes刂
View full entry
其qíhis
HSK 58 strokes八
View full entry
实shíreal
HSK 48 strokes宀
View full entry

How to say not just in name only, but also in reality (idiom) in Chinese

“not just in name only, but also in reality (idiom)” in Chinese is名副其实míngfùqíshí

The idiom 名副其实 (míng fù qí shí) describes a situation where something is accurately represented by its name or label, meaning it is genuine and true to its essence. It is commonly used in contexts where one wants to affirm that something lives up to its reputation or description, emphasizing authenticity.

When to use 名副其实

Be cautious with the tone when pronouncing this idiom, as incorrect tones can change its meaning. It is often used in formal discussions or written evaluations, so avoid using it in casual conversations. Common collocations include ‘名副其实的评价’ (a true evaluation) or ‘名副其实的效果’ (a genuine effect).

名副其实 or something close to it

名副其实 vs 名不副实 (míng bù fù shí): Use 名副其实 when affirming authenticity and accuracy, while 名不副实 indicates that something does not live up to its name.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse this idiom with similar expressions, leading to incorrect usage. For example, saying ‘名副假实’ instead of ‘名副其实’ blends incorrect meanings. Always use the correct form to maintain its intended meaning.

Write 名副其实

名
副
其
实

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Grammar patterns of 名副其实

名副其实 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. The example sentences below show it in action, with practice buttons (Listen, Practice Writing, Practice Speaking) on every line.

Exercise 1 of 1

Fill the gap

Type the missing word. Pinyin works; then pick the character.

来自德国汉堡的霍斯特是个____的怪人。

Horst, a German from Hamburg, was a true original.

Example sentences for 名副其实 (1)

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1
来自德国汉堡的霍斯特是个名副其实的怪人。

láizì dé guó hàn bǎo de huò Sī tè shì gè míngfùqíshí de guài rén。

Horst, a German from Hamburg, was a true original.

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Frequently asked questions about 名副其实

Yes, you can use it to describe a person who genuinely embodies their title or reputation.

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