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一言一行 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
一言一行yìyányìxíngevery word and action (idiom)HSK 7, unknown, 15 strokes, rank #39781, Very Hard
yìyányìxíng(yi4yan2yi4xing2)yi yan yi xing T1
  1. 1every word and action (idiom)
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March 24, 2026

一言一行yìyányìxíng(yi4yan2yi4xing2)

The idiom 一言一行 (yī yán yī xíng) means 'every word and action,' emphasizing the importance of one's words and deeds. It is often used to highlight the significance of being mindful and responsible in communication and behavior, suggesting that both should reflect one's character and intentions.

Strokes15Frequency#39781DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

In Chinese culture, personal integrity and the alignment of words and actions are highly valued, often seen as a reflection of one's moral character. The idiom 一言一行 embodies this cultural principle, highlighting the importance of authenticity.

Memory tip

Imagine a person carefully choosing each word they speak (一言) and each action they take (一行), like a painter selecting colors for a masterpiece. The repetition of '一' (one) reinforces that every single word and action matters.

Meanings of 一言一行

yìyányìxíng(yi4yan2yi4xing2)
1every word and action (idiom)
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About 一言一行

一言一行Simplified
15Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2

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AI study notes for 一言一行

Usage Notes

This idiom is generally used in both formal and informal contexts but leans towards a more serious tone. A common mistake is using it in a situation where light-heartedness is appropriate; ensure its use aligns with the gravity of the topic discussed.

HSK Study Tips

While this idiom is not explicitly listed in HSK levels, it connects with HSK vocabulary related to communication and behavior. Focus on understanding the implications of words and actions in various contexts, as well as practicing sentence structures that incorporate idioms.

Common Mistakes

Learners often use this idiom incorrectly by omitting the importance of context; for example, saying '我会一言一行' (I will every word and action) instead of using it to describe someone else's behavior. Ensure it is used to reflect on actions or words, not as a personal promise.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 一言一行

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Idiom spotlight: 一言一行

Chengyu origin story
Literal meaning:one word one action

Component characters

一yīone
HSK 11 strokes一
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言yánwords
7 strokes言
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一yīone
HSK 11 strokes一
View full entry
行xíngto walk
HSK 36 strokes行
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How to say every word and action (idiom) in Chinese

“every word and action (idiom)” in Chinese is一言一行yìyányìxíng

The idiom 一言一行 (yī yán yī xíng) means 'every word and action,' emphasizing the importance of one's words and deeds. It is often used to highlight the significance of being mindful and responsible in communication and behavior, suggesting that both should reflect one's character and intentions.

When to use 一言一行

This idiom is generally used in both formal and informal contexts but leans towards a more serious tone. A common mistake is using it in a situation where light-heartedness is appropriate; ensure its use aligns with the gravity of the topic discussed.

What learners get wrong

Learners often use this idiom incorrectly by omitting the importance of context; for example, saying '我会一言一行' (I will every word and action) instead of using it to describe someone else's behavior. Ensure it is used to reflect on actions or words, not as a personal promise.

Write 一言一行

一
言
一
行

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Cultural Notes for 一言一行

🌏Cross-cultural Insight

In Western cultures, while there is also an emphasis on the importance of words and actions, the focus may be more on individualism rather than the collective responsibility implied in this idiom.

Frequently asked questions about 一言一行

While it can be used in casual conversations, it's best suited for more serious discussions about integrity and responsibility.

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