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March 24, 2026
史无前例(史無前例)shǐwúqiánlì(shi3wu2qian2li4)
The idiom 史无前例 (shǐ wú qián lì) means 'unprecedented in history' and is used to describe events, actions, or phenomena that have never occurred before. It often conveys a sense of significance or uniqueness, especially in historical, political, or social contexts.
Frequency#13876DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, historical events often carry significant weight and influence societal perspectives, making the concept of being 'unprecedented' particularly meaningful in discussions around policy changes or major social movements.
Memory Tip
Imagine a historian (史) who has never (无) seen anything like (前例) this before. Picture them with wide eyes, looking at a blank page in history, realizing that what they are witnessing is truly one of a kind.
Meanings of 史无前例
shǐwúqiánlì(shi3wu2qian2li4)
1unprecedented in history
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About 史无前例
史无前例Simplified
史無前例Traditional
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HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 史无前例
Podcast: 史无前例
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AI Study Notes for 史无前例
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a historian (史) who has never (无) seen anything like (前例) this before. Picture them with wide eyes, looking at a blank page in history, realizing that what they are witnessing is truly one of a kind.
Usage Notes
This idiom is generally used in formal contexts, such as news reports or academic writing. A common mistake is to use it casually, which can diminish its impact. Be aware of the tone and ensure it fits the gravity of the situation you are describing.
HSK Study Tips
Though this idiom is not specifically listed in HSK levels, it connects to themes in HSK 5 and above, such as cultural discussions and historical analysis. Students should focus on understanding idiomatic expressions and how to use them contextually.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, historical events often carry significant weight and influence societal perspectives, making the concept of being 'unprecedented' particularly meaningful in discussions around policy changes or major social movements.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse the structure of the idiom, mistakenly saying 史前无例 (shǐ qián wú lì), which is incorrect. The proper structure requires maintaining its original form to convey the intended meaning.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 史无前例
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Cultural Notes for 史无前例
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, historical events often carry significant weight and influence societal perspectives, making the concept of being 'unprecedented' particularly meaningful in discussions around policy changes or major social movements.
Frequently Asked Questions about 史无前例
It's best to reserve this idiom for formal situations, as it may sound out of place in casual dialogue.
You could use phrases like 前所未有 (qián suǒ wèi yǒu), which also means 'unprecedented', to convey a similar meaning.
Practice saying it as 'shǐ wú qián lì', paying attention to the tones: third tone, second tone, second tone, fourth tone.
