不言而喻...
bù yán ér yù...
It goes without saying...
Literally: Not (不) speak (言) and (而) understand (喻)
In 15 Seconds
- Describes something so obvious it doesn't need words.
- A sophisticated four-character idiom for 'self-evident'.
- Common in writing, speeches, and polite conversation.
Meaning
This phrase is used to describe something so obvious that you don't even need to say it out loud. It's like pointing at a rainy sky and saying it's wet—everyone already knows.
Key Examples
3 of 6Discussing a successful project
这次合作的重要性是不言而喻的。
The importance of this cooperation goes without saying.
Talking about a friend's obvious happiness
看他那样子，喜悦之情不言而喻。
Looking at him, his joy goes without saying.
Texting about a bad movie everyone hated
那部电影烂得不言而喻，别看了。
That movie is obviously terrible, don't watch it.
Cultural Background
Originating from the works of Mencius, this idiom reflects the traditional Chinese appreciation for 'implicit meaning' (hanxu). It suggests that the highest form of communication often happens without words, a concept deeply rooted in both Confucian and Taoist thought.
The 'De' (的) Connection
You will very often see this phrase followed by `的`. For example: `...是不言而喻的`. It makes the sentence sound complete and balanced.
Don't be a 'Know-it-all'
If you use this for things that are actually controversial, you might sound arrogant. Use it for things everyone genuinely agrees on.
In 15 Seconds
- Describes something so obvious it doesn't need words.
- A sophisticated four-character idiom for 'self-evident'.
- Common in writing, speeches, and polite conversation.
What It Means
不言而喻 is a classic four-character idiom (chengyu). It describes a situation where the truth is crystal clear. You use it when a fact is self-evident. It implies that words are unnecessary. It’s the linguistic equivalent of a knowing nod.
How To Use It
Think of it as a fancy way to say 'obviously.' You usually place it at the start of a sentence. It can also act as a predicate. For example, 他们的默契不言而喻. This means their chemistry is obvious to everyone. It adds a touch of sophistication to your speech.
When To Use It
Use it when discussing shared knowledge or logical results. It’s perfect for professional presentations or written essays. You can use it when texting friends about obvious drama. It works well when describing feelings that are visible on someone's face. If your friend wins the lottery, their joy is 不言而喻.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for things that actually need explaining. If you're teaching a complex math formula, don't say it's 不言而喻. That might make people feel silly. Avoid using it in extremely casual, slang-heavy slang sessions. It can sound a bit 'bookish' if overused in a dive bar. Keep it for when the logic is truly undeniable.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from ancient philosophical texts like the 'Mencius.' Chinese culture often values 'reading the room' and non-verbal communication. Saying something is 不言而喻 respects the listener's intelligence. It suggests a shared understanding without the need for noisy chatter. It reflects the beauty of 'showing, not telling.'
Common Variations
In very casual speech, people might just say 显而易见. That means 'obvious to the eye.' Another similar one is 众所周知, meaning 'as everyone knows.' However, 不言而喻 feels more elegant and internal. It’s about the understanding, not just the seeing.
Usage Notes
This is a formal idiom that sits comfortably in professional and academic settings. In casual speech, it makes the speaker sound articulate and thoughtful.
The 'De' (的) Connection
You will very often see this phrase followed by `的`. For example: `...是不言而喻的`. It makes the sentence sound complete and balanced.
Don't be a 'Know-it-all'
If you use this for things that are actually controversial, you might sound arrogant. Use it for things everyone genuinely agrees on.
The Power of Silence
In China, being 'too direct' can be seen as lacking grace. Using `不言而喻` is a polite way to acknowledge a fact without being blunt.
Examples
6这次合作的重要性是不言而喻的。
The importance of this cooperation goes without saying.
Used as a predicate to emphasize a key point.
看他那样子，喜悦之情不言而喻。
Looking at him, his joy goes without saying.
Describes an emotion that is visible on the face.
那部电影烂得不言而喻，别看了。
That movie is obviously terrible, don't watch it.
Used informally to express a shared opinion.
教育对孩子的影响是不言而喻的。
The influence of education on children is self-evident.
Standard academic usage.
你对火锅的热爱简直是不言而喻。
Your love for hotpot is simply beyond words.
Humorous exaggeration of a known fact.
我们之间的默契不言而喻。
The chemistry between us goes without saying.
Expresses a deep, wordless connection.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct phrase to complete the sentence about a clear result.
他努力了这么久，成功的喜悦 ___ 。
Since he worked hard for a long time, his joy upon succeeding is obvious and 'goes without saying'.
Which phrase fits best in a formal business context?
环保的必要性是 ___ 的。
Environmental protection's necessity is a serious, self-evident fact suitable for this idiom.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Level of 不言而喻
Rarely used, sounds a bit stiff.
Talking to a toddler.
Common in daily adult conversation.
Chatting with colleagues.
The 'sweet spot' for this idiom.
Writing a report or speech.
When to use 不言而喻
Universal Truths
Health is important.
Visible Emotions
Smiling after winning.
Logical Results
Hard work leads to success.
Shared Secrets
Knowing why a friend is sad.
Practice Bank
2 exercises他努力了这么久，成功的喜悦 ___ 。
Since he worked hard for a long time, his joy upon succeeding is obvious and 'goes without saying'.
环保的必要性是 ___ 的。
Environmental protection's necessity is a serious, self-evident fact suitable for this idiom.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot at all! While it's common in writing, people use it in spoken Chinese to sound more educated or to emphasize a point clearly.
No, it describes a situation, a feeling, or a fact, not a person's character. You wouldn't say 'He is 不言而喻'.
It's more formal than 显然 (obviously). It carries the nuance that words are literally unnecessary because the understanding is shared.
Yes, especially if you are discussing something everyone in the group chat already knows. It adds a bit of flavor to the chat.
Usually it's neutral or positive. However, if used sarcastically, it can highlight someone's obvious mistake.
It's yù with a falling tone. Make sure to round your lips like you're saying 'ee' but with an 'o' shape.
Yes, it's a great phrase for interviews. For example, 'The value I bring to the team is 不言而喻' (but say it humbly!).
Not really. As a four-character idiom, it's meant to be used as a complete unit.
Adding too many extra words. Keep it simple: ...是不言而喻的 is the most standard structure.
It is standard Mandarin and used equally across all regions of China.
Related Phrases
显而易见
Obvious; easy to see.
众所周知
As everyone knows.
心照不宣
A tacit understanding; both sides know without saying.
理所当然
As a matter of course; naturally.
