Meanings of 朝三暮四
By ear
Play it, then pick what 朝三暮四 means.
About 朝三暮四
Podcast: 朝三暮四
Podcast: 朝三暮四
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI study notes for 朝三暮四
When using this idiom, it's important to ensure that the context clearly conveys indecisiveness. A common mistake is using it in formal contexts, where more straightforward expressions of uncertainty might be preferable. Be cautious with tones, as saying '朝' (zhao1) with the wrong tone can change its meaning.
While this idiom does not appear in HSK vocabulary lists, it is a useful expression for advanced learners to understand Chinese cultural nuances. Students should focus on idioms that convey emotions or behaviors related to decision-making, as these often enrich conversational skills.
Learners often confuse this idiom with others that imply flexibility rather than indecisiveness. For example, saying '他很朝三暮四' (He is very morning three evening four) incorrectly suggests a positive trait. The correct usage focuses on the negative aspect of being inconsistent.
Pronunciation of 朝三暮四
Drill the tone of 朝三暮四, say it back, see your pitch against the model voice, and earn XP towards mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
Jason Explains 朝三暮四 to you
Let me explain 朝三暮四 for you
Make it yours
Jason looks at what you watch and listen to, the checkpoints you have cleared, our lessons and what you have been exploring, and explains 朝三暮四 through them.
Sign in free to make it personal. New accounts start with 200 AI credits.
How well do you know 朝三暮四?
Learning Lab
Knowing 朝三暮四 is seven skills, not one.
Its meaning, its character, its pinyin, its tone — hearing it, saying it, writing it. The Learning Lab measures each one from your own practice, on every word you study, so you see what you actually know rather than how much you have done.
- MeaningFree
- CharacterFree
- PinyinFree
- TonePro
- ListeningPro
- SpeakingPro
- WritingPro
Idiom spotlight: 朝三暮四
Component characters
How to say lit. say three in the morning but four in the evening (idiom); to change sth that is already settled upon in Chinese
“lit. say three in the morning but four in the evening (idiom); to change sth that is already settled upon” in Chinese is朝三暮四
朝三暮四 is an idiom that describes someone who is indecisive or changes their mind frequently. It literally translates to 'say three in the morning but four in the evening,' conveying the idea of inconsistency in decisions or statements. This expression is often used to criticize behavior that lacks commitment or reliability.
When to use 朝三暮四
When using this idiom, it's important to ensure that the context clearly conveys indecisiveness. A common mistake is using it in formal contexts, where more straightforward expressions of uncertainty might be preferable. Be cautious with tones, as saying '朝' (zhao1) with the wrong tone can change its meaning.
What learners get wrong
Learners often confuse this idiom with others that imply flexibility rather than indecisiveness. For example, saying '他很朝三暮四' (He is very morning three evening four) incorrectly suggests a positive trait. The correct usage focuses on the negative aspect of being inconsistent.
Write 朝三暮四
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 朝三暮四 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Ask Jason
Have a question about 朝三暮四?
Jason answers about this word at your level: example sentences, how it differs from similar words, and a way to remember it.
Sign in free to ask. New accounts start with 200 AI credits.
Frequently asked questions about 朝三暮四
No, this idiom specifically criticizes indecisiveness rather than valuing flexibility.
Jason Recommends
Not sure what to learn after 朝三暮四?
Jason picks three words from your level and explains why each one is worth your time next. It takes a free account so he knows what you already know.