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相辅相成 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
相辅相成xiāngfǔxiāngchéngto complement one another (idiom)HSK 7, i, 35 strokes, rank #56152, Very Hard
xiāngfǔxiāngchéng(xiang1fu3xiang1cheng2)xiang fu xiang cheng T1
  1. 1to complement one another (idiom)
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March 24, 2026

相辅相成(相輔相成)xiāngfǔxiāngchéng(xiang1fu3xiang1cheng2)

The idiom '相辅相成' means that two or more elements support and enhance each other, leading to mutual growth and improvement. It is often used in contexts that highlight the importance of cooperation, teamwork, or the interdependence of ideas or individuals.

Strokes35Frequency#56152DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

The concept of complementarity is deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy, particularly in the idea of Yin and Yang, which emphasizes balance and harmony between opposing forces. This idiom reflects the value placed on collaboration and unity in Chinese culture.

Memory tip

Imagine two friends, each holding a part of a puzzle. As they work together, their pieces complement one another, creating a beautiful picture. The characters '相辅' (xiāng fǔ) resemble two friends supporting each other, and '相成' (xiāng chéng) conveys how they complete the picture together.

Meanings of 相辅相成

xiāngfǔxiāngchéng(xiang1fu3xiang1cheng2)
1to complement one another (idiom)
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About 相辅相成

相辅相成Simplified
相輔相成Traditional
35Strokes
—Radical
成语chéngyǔidiom (id.)Part of Speech
#56152Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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AI study notes for 相辅相成

Quick Contrast

相得益彰 (xiāngdéyìzhāng) - use this entry when emphasizing that two elements complement each other to enhance their overall effect, rather than just supporting each other.

Usage Notes

This idiom is typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as discussions about teamwork or collaboration. A common mistake is to use it in a negative context, but it should only describe positive, supportive relationships. Ensure you use it correctly with phrases that imply mutual benefit.

HSK Study Tips

As an HSK 6 idiom, '相辅相成' connects with other advanced vocabulary that describes relationships, collaboration, or duality. Students should focus on its application in discussions about teamwork and integration of contrasting ideas or elements.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse '相辅相成' with '相互影响' (xiāng hù yǐng xiǎng), which means mutual influence. Remember, '相辅相成' specifically emphasizes the complementary relationship rather than just influence.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 相辅相成

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Idiom spotlight: 相辅相成

Chengyu origin story
Literal meaning:mutually assist mutually complete

Component characters

相Xiāngeach other
9 strokes目
View full entry
辅fǔto assist
HSK 711 strokes车
View full entry
相Xiāngeach other
9 strokes目
View full entry
成chéngto succeed
HSK 66 strokes戈
View full entry

How to say to complement one another (idiom) in Chinese

“to complement one another (idiom)” in Chinese is相辅相成xiāngfǔxiāngchéng

The idiom '相辅相成' means that two or more elements support and enhance each other, leading to mutual growth and improvement. It is often used in contexts that highlight the importance of cooperation, teamwork, or the interdependence of ideas or individuals.

When to use 相辅相成

This idiom is typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as discussions about teamwork or collaboration. A common mistake is to use it in a negative context, but it should only describe positive, supportive relationships. Ensure you use it correctly with phrases that imply mutual benefit.

相辅相成 or something close to it

相得益彰 (xiāngdéyìzhāng) - use this entry when emphasizing that two elements complement each other to enhance their overall effect, rather than just supporting each other.

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse '相辅相成' with '相互影响' (xiāng hù yǐng xiǎng), which means mutual influence. Remember, '相辅相成' specifically emphasizes the complementary relationship rather than just influence.

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相
辅
相
成

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Cultural Notes for 相辅相成

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

In Western cultures, the idea of complementing one another is often associated with teamwork in a more competitive context, while in Chinese culture, it emphasizes harmony and collective success.

Frequently asked questions about 相辅相成

Yes, it's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, especially when discussing teamwork.

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