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大模大样 — pronunciations, definitions, and tags
HanziPinyinEnglishTags
大模大样boldly; ostentatiously; poised; self-assuredHSK 7, unknown, 30 strokes, rank #53379, Very Hard
  1. 1boldly; ostentatiously
  2. 2poised; self-assured
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March 24, 2026

大模大样

大模大样 is an idiom used to describe someone who behaves in a very arrogant or presumptuous manner, often without regard for others. It can also imply a sense of showiness or ostentation, highlighting a lack of modesty or humility in one's actions.

Strokes30Frequency#53379DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural note

In Chinese culture, humility is highly valued, and being 大模大样 can be viewed as a serious social faux pas. This idiom captures the cultural expectation that individuals should not draw excessive attention to themselves.

Memory tip

Imagine a large, exaggerated figure strutting around, showing off without any care for others' opinions. The '大' (big) emphasizes the grandiose nature of their behavior, while '模样' (appearance) suggests that they are putting on a show, making it easy to remember the meaning as someone being overly showy.

Meanings of 大模大样

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What does 大模大样 mean in English?

大模大样

About 大模大样

大模大样Simplified
30Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedTOCFLL5CEFRC2

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AI study notes for 大模大样

Usage Notes

This idiom is typically used in informal contexts to criticize someone's pompous behavior. Be careful not to use it in formal settings, as it can come off as rude or disrespectful. Common collocations include phrases like '他总是大模大样' (He is always so arrogant).

HSK Study Tips

Although 大模大样 is not an HSK vocabulary word, understanding it can help learners recognize idiomatic expressions that convey opinions about people's behaviors. Students at lower levels should focus on basic character recognition, while advanced learners can practice using it in context.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse 大模大样 with similar idioms that have positive meanings. For example, saying '他很大模大样' (He is very 大模大样) without understanding its negative connotation can lead to miscommunication. The correct usage should reflect the criticism intended.

AI-enhanced 2026-03-24

Pronunciation of 大模大样

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Component characters

大dàbig
HSK 13 strokes大
View full entry
模móto imitate
HSK 714 strokes木
View full entry
大dàbig
HSK 13 strokes大
View full entry
样yàngmanner
HSK 610 strokes木
View full entry

How to say boldly; ostentatiously in Chinese

“boldly; ostentatiously” in Chinese is大模大样

大模大样 is an idiom used to describe someone who behaves in a very arrogant or presumptuous manner, often without regard for others. It can also imply a sense of showiness or ostentation, highlighting a lack of modesty or humility in one's actions.

When to use 大模大样

This idiom is typically used in informal contexts to criticize someone's pompous behavior. Be careful not to use it in formal settings, as it can come off as rude or disrespectful. Common collocations include phrases like '他总是大模大样' (He is always so arrogant).

What learners get wrong

Learners often confuse 大模大样 with similar idioms that have positive meanings. For example, saying '他很大模大样' (He is very 大模大样) without understanding its negative connotation can lead to miscommunication. The correct usage should reflect the criticism intended.

Write 大模大样

大
模
大
样

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Frequently asked questions about 大模大样

No, it is generally used with a negative connotation to criticize arrogance or showiness.

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