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心驰神往

B2 verb 9 min read

心驰神往

xinchishenwang

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 心驰神往 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 心驰神往 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the full idiom '心驰神往' yet, as it is quite advanced. However, you can understand it as a very strong way to say 'I really, really like this place' or 'I want to go there very much.' Think of it as 'Super Like.' At this stage, just focus on the 'heart' (心) part of the word. You know that '心' means heart, and in Chinese, many words about feelings use '心.' If you see this word in a travel book, just know it means the place is beautiful and people dream of going there. It's like seeing a picture of a beautiful beach and feeling your heart jump because you want to be there so badly. You won't use this in your basic conversations, but it's a good 'secret word' to recognize when you see it in a storybook or on a poster.

At the A2 level, you can start to recognize that '心驰神往' is a special kind of word called a 'Chengyu.' These are four-character phrases that have a deep meaning. You can break it down a little: '心' (heart) and '神' (spirit). This tells you that the word is about your inner feelings, not just your physical body. When you learn about hobbies or travel, you might see this word used to describe famous places like the Great Wall or the Eiffel Tower. Instead of just saying 'I want to go to Paris' (我想去巴黎), a more advanced book might say 'Paris makes people 心驰神往.' You don't need to master the grammar yet, but try to remember that this word is used for 'dream destinations.' It's more formal than '想' (want) or '喜欢' (like).

By B1, you are starting to use more descriptive language. You should understand that '心驰神往' is used to express a 'fascinating' or 'captivating' feeling. You can use it when you are writing a short paragraph about your dreams or a place you want to visit. The key is the structure: '令我心驰神往' (makes me long for it). For example, '那里的风景令我心驰神往' (The scenery there makes me long for it). You are moving beyond simple sentences and using this idiom to show that you appreciate the beauty or the 'feeling' of a place. It's a great word to use in a speaking exam when the examiner asks you about your favorite travel destination. It shows you have a 'literary' touch to your Chinese.

At the B2 level, which is the target level for this word, you should be able to use '心驰神往' accurately in both writing and speaking. You understand the nuance: it's not just 'wanting' something, it's about being 'spiritually captivated.' You should be able to use it with different structures, like '对...心驰神往' or '令/让...心驰神往.' You also know that it shouldn't be used for mundane things like food or small objects. You can use it in essays to describe abstract concepts, like 'a life of freedom' or 'the pursuit of knowledge.' You are also aware of its synonyms like '向往' and '梦寐以求' and you choose '心驰神往' specifically when you want to emphasize the 'fascination' and 'spiritual journey' aspect of your desire. This is a key word for achieving a 'natural' and 'sophisticated' tone in your intermediate-advanced Chinese.

At the C1 level, you should appreciate the classical roots of '心驰神往.' You understand that '驰' (gallop) evokes the image of a horse, representing the speed and power of the mind's desire. You can use this idiom in complex literary analyses or formal speeches without it sounding forced. You might use it to describe the impact of a profound piece of literature or a philosophical idea. You are also able to contrast it with other high-level idioms like '魂牵梦萦' or '流连忘返.' You understand that '心驰神往' is about the *longing* for something distant, while '流连忘返' is about the *unwillingness to leave* something you are already experiencing. Your use of the word is precise, elegant, and perfectly suited to the context, reflecting a deep understanding of Chinese aesthetic values.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over '心驰神往.' You can play with the word in creative writing, perhaps even referencing its individual components to create new poetic effects. You understand its historical context and how it has been used in classical poetry and prose to describe the 'immortal' or 'transcendent' realm. You can use it to discuss the psychological state of 'flow' or the human condition of always searching for an ideal. In your speech, it flows naturally, used not just as a vocabulary item but as a tool to evoke specific imagery and emotion in your audience. You might even use it in a critique of modern society, discussing how people '心驰神往' a digital reality while ignoring the physical world. Your understanding is not just linguistic, but cultural and philosophical.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

心驰神往 in 30 Seconds

A poetic idiom meaning to be deeply fascinated or to long for a beautiful place or ideal.
Literally 'heart gallops, spirit goes,' capturing the feeling of mental travel toward a dream.
Used in formal writing and travel contexts to show high appreciation and spiritual attraction.
Different from simple 'wanting' as it implies a soul-level fascination and aesthetic longing.

The Chinese idiom 心驰神往 (xīn chí shén wǎng) is a quintessential example of the poetic depth found in the Chinese language. At its core, it describes a state of profound fascination or a deep, spiritual longing for a place, a person, or a state of being. The phrase is composed of four characters: xīn (heart/mind), chí (to gallop or speed), shén (spirit/soul), and wǎng (to go toward). When combined, they paint a vivid picture of one's heart galloping away and one's spirit flying toward a desired object or location, even if the physical body remains behind. It is far more intense than simply saying 'I want to go' or 'I like it'; it implies that your very essence is already there, captivated by the allure of the destination.

Emotional Intensity: It conveys a sense of enchantment and irresistible attraction that transcends mere preference.
Literary Flavor: As a Chengyu (four-character idiom), it elevates the register of your speech, making it sound sophisticated and cultured.

听了关于西藏的描述，我不禁对那片神秘的土地心驰神往。

Translation: After hearing the description of Tibet, I couldn't help but feel a deep longing for that mysterious land.

You will most frequently encounter this word in travel writing, literature, and formal speeches where the speaker wishes to evoke a sense of wonder. For instance, a travel brochure might describe the Swiss Alps as a place that makes travelers '心驰神往.' It is rarely used for mundane desires like wanting a cup of coffee or a new pair of shoes; rather, it is reserved for experiences that touch the soul or ignite the imagination. It captures that unique human experience of being physically in one place while being mentally and emotionally transported to another, more beautiful reality.

In a modern context, it can also be used to describe one's aspiration for a certain lifestyle or a professional goal that seems ideal. If a student dreams of studying at Harvard, they might describe the academic atmosphere there as something that makes them '心驰神往.' It suggests that the beauty or excellence of the target is so great that it exerts a magnetic pull on the observer's spirit. It is a word of high praise and deep appreciation.

那场精彩的音乐会令所有观众心驰神往，仿佛置身于另一个世界。

Translation: That brilliant concert left the entire audience captivated, as if they were in another world.

Visual Imagery: The characters suggest movement—a spiritual journey toward an ideal.

Using 心驰神往 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as a verb-like idiom. While it functions as a predicate, it is often preceded by words that indicate the cause of the fascination. The most common structure is 令/让 + Person + 心驰神往 (Make someone long for/be fascinated by) or 对 + Object + 心驰神往 (To long for [Object]). This flexibility allows you to focus either on the person experiencing the feeling or the object causing it.

Structure A: Causative: [Something] 令/让 [Someone] 心驰神往。 (Something makes someone fascinated.)
Structure B: Direct Longing: [Someone] 对 [Something] 心驰神往。 (Someone longs for something.)

故宫的宏伟建筑让人心驰神往。

The magnificent architecture of the Forbidden City makes people long for it.

Because it is an idiom, it carries a certain weight. You wouldn't typically use it in a short, clipped sentence without context. It thrives in descriptive passages. For example, when writing an essay about your future goals, you might say, '我对那种自由的生活方式心驰神往' (I deeply long for that kind of free lifestyle). Here, the idiom adds a layer of romanticism and emotional depth that a simpler verb like '喜欢' (like) or '想要' (want) would lack. It suggests that your desire is not just a passing thought, but a persistent mental preoccupation.

In more advanced usage, you can combine it with adverbs like '无限' (infinitely) or '始终' (always) to emphasize the duration or intensity of the feeling. '我对他所描述的未来图景感到无限心驰神往' (I felt infinitely fascinated by the vision of the future he described). This highlights the 'galloping' nature of the mind—it is moving toward that vision with great speed and intensity. It is also important to note that while '神往' can stand alone as a verb meaning 'to be charmed,' using the full four-character '心驰神往' provides a more rhythmic and classical feel, which is highly valued in formal Chinese writing.

每当读到武侠小说，我都会对那个江湖世界心驰神往。

Whenever I read Wuxia novels, I find myself longing for that world of martial arts.

While 心驰神往 is a literary term, it is surprisingly common in specific real-world contexts. The most frequent place you will hear it is in high-quality travel documentaries or cultural programs. Narrators use it to describe breathtaking landscapes or historical sites to evoke an emotional response from the audience. If you watch a CCTV documentary about the Silk Road or the Great Wall, you are almost certain to hear this phrase used to describe the allure of these ancient paths.

Media & Documentaries: Used to describe 'bucket list' destinations or awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Literature & Poetry: Common in novels to describe a character's internal yearning for a lost love or a distant dream.

纪录片中展示的海底世界真是令人心驰神往。

The underwater world shown in the documentary is truly captivating.

Another common venue is in the world of art and music criticism. A critic might say that a particular painting or a symphony makes the audience '心驰神往,' meaning it transports them to a different emotional or spiritual plane. It is also used in formal speeches, particularly those involving visions for the future or international cooperation. A politician might speak of a '令世界人民心驰神往的和平前景' (a prospect of peace that the people of the world long for). In these cases, the idiom adds a layer of sincerity and grandeur to the rhetoric.

Finally, you will find it in high-end advertising. Luxury car brands, high-end real estate developers, and premium travel agencies use '心驰神往' to create a sense of aspiration. They want their product to be seen not just as a commodity, but as a dream destination or an ideal state of life. By using this idiom, they tap into the consumer's desire for something transcendent and extraordinary. It is a powerful word for marketing because it bypasses logic and speaks directly to the 'galloping heart' of the potential buyer.

这本小说描写的世外桃源生活令许多读者心驰神往。

The utopian life described in this novel makes many readers long for it.

Despite its beauty, 心驰神往 is often misused by learners who treat it as a simple synonym for 'wanting' or 'liking.' The most common mistake is applying it to trivial or mundane objects. For instance, saying '我对这个汉堡心驰神往' (I long for this hamburger) sounds bizarre and overly dramatic in Chinese, unless you are being intentionally ironic. The idiom requires an object that is grand, beautiful, or spiritually significant.

Mistake 1: Over-dramatization: Using it for everyday items like food, office supplies, or minor tasks.
Mistake 2: Incorrect Prepositions: Forgetting to use '对' (toward) or '令/让' (make) and trying to use it as a transitive verb directly.

我心驰神往那个电影。 (Incorrect structure)
那部电影令我心驰神往。 (Correct structure)

Another mistake involves confusing it with similar-looking idioms like '魂牵梦萦' (hún qiān mèng yíng). While both involve a deep connection to something, '魂牵梦萦' specifically implies that the object is so important it appears in your dreams and constantly occupies your thoughts, often with a sense of nostalgia or sadness. '心驰神往,' on the other hand, is generally more positive and focuses on the attraction and fascination of a future or distant prospect. Using '心驰神往' to describe homesickness might feel slightly off; '魂牵梦萦' would be more appropriate there.

Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the 'register' or formality of the word. In a very casual text message to a friend about going to the mall, '心驰神往' is too stiff. In that context, '超级想去' (really want to go) is much more natural. Save '心驰神往' for your essays, formal presentations, or when you are truly trying to express a deep, poetic yearning. Misusing the register can make you sound like you are reading from an old textbook rather than speaking naturally.

Understanding how 心驰神往 compares to its synonyms will help you choose the right word for the right situation. The most common alternative is 向往 (xiàngwǎng). While both mean 'to long for,' '向往' is much more common in daily speech and can be used for simpler desires. '心驰神往' is the 'upgraded,' more literary version of '向往.' If '向往' is a steady walk toward a goal, '心驰神往' is a full-speed gallop of the soul.

向往 (xiàngwǎng): General longing. Used for both big dreams and small wishes. Neutral register.
梦寐以求 (mèng mèi yǐ qiú): To crave something even in one's sleep. Focuses more on the 'desire to possess' rather than 'fascination.'
情有独钟 (qíng yǒu dú zhōng): To have a special fondness for something. More about personal taste than spiritual fascination.

虽然很多人喜欢大城市，但我对宁静的乡村生活心驰神往。

Comparison: Using '心驰神往' here makes the village life sound like a poetic ideal, not just a preference.

Another interesting comparison is with 垂涎三尺 (chuí xián sān chǐ), which literally means 'drooling three feet.' This is also a form of 'longing,' but it is purely physical and often greedy—usually used for delicious food or someone else's wealth. '心驰神往' is the spiritual opposite; it is lofty, aesthetic, and noble. You wouldn't '心驰神往' a steak, and you wouldn't '垂涎三尺' a beautiful sunset (unless you were a very strange poet). Choosing between these depends entirely on the 'level' of your desire.

Lastly, consider 醉心 (zuìxīn), which means 'to be intoxicated by/infatuated with.' This is very close to '心驰神往' but focuses more on the current state of being 'drunk' on the beauty of something you are currently experiencing. '心驰神往' often implies a distance—you are here, and the thing you want is 'there,' and your spirit is flying toward it. '醉心' is more about being immersed in the moment. Both are beautiful words, but '心驰神往' captures the specific magic of distance and imagination.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '驰' (chí) contains the 'horse' radical (马), which emphasizes the speed and vigor of the longing. It's not just a quiet wish; it's a powerful, fast-moving desire, like a horse racing across a field.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʃɪn tʃiː ʃən wʌŋ/

US /ʃɪn tʃi ʃən wɑŋ/

Equal stress on all four characters, with a slight emphasis on the first (心) and third (神) characters to highlight the 'heart' and 'spirit' connection.

Rhymes With

神往 (shénwǎng) 向往 (xiàngwǎng) 来往 (láiwǎng) 交往 (jiāowǎng) 驰骋 (chíchěng - partial) 神往 (shénwǎng) 过往 (guòwǎng) 开往 (kāiwǎng)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'chi' as 'chee' (it's a rising second tone).
Pronouncing 'wang' with a short 'a' as in 'cat' (it should be an 'ah' sound).
Mixing up the tones: 1-2-2-3 (xīn chí shén wǎng).
Failing to aspirate the 'ch' in 'chi'.
Pronouncing 'xin' like 'sin' (it's more like 'sheen' but without the long 'ee').

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Requires knowledge of four distinct characters and the concept of Chengyu.

Writing 5/5

The character '驰' (chí) can be tricky to write correctly.

Speaking 3/5

The tones are straightforward (1-2-2-3), but requires the 'ling/rang' structure.

Listening 4/5

Can be confused with other 'xin' or 'chi' words if not heard clearly.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

心 (xīn) 神 (shén) 往 (wǎng) 向往 (xiàngwǎng) 让 (ràng)

Learn Next

梦寐以求 (mèng mèi yǐ qiú) 魂牵梦萦 (hún qiān mèng yíng) 流连忘返 (liú lián wàng fǎn) 心旷神怡 (xīn kuàng shén yí) 神魂颠倒 (shén hún diān dǎo)

Advanced

驰骋 (chíchěng) 神游 (shényóu) 意境 (yìjìng) 韵味 (yùnwèi) 超脱 (chāotuō)

Grammar to Know

Causative Verbs '令' and '让'

那个消息令我心驰神往。

Preposition '对' to indicate object of emotion

他对自由心驰神往。

Adjectival Modifier with '的'

这是一个令人心驰神往的故事。

Chengyu as Predicate

听了他的话，我不禁心驰神往。

Using '已久' to indicate duration

我对那里心驰神往已久。

Examples by Level

那个地方很美，让我心驰神往。

That place is beautiful, it makes me long for it.

A1 level uses '让' (make) + '我' (me) + Chengyu.

我对他说的故事心驰神往。

I was captivated by the story he told.

Simple use of '对...心驰神往'.

北京是一个令人心驰神往的城市。

Beijing is a city that makes people long for it.

Adjectival use: '令人...的' (makes people...).

听了音乐，我心驰神往。

Hearing the music, I was fascinated.

Subject + Chengyu as a predicate.

大海让我心驰神往。

The ocean makes me long for it.

Simple causative structure.

那张照片真美，令人心驰神往。

That photo is so beautiful, it makes one long for the place.

Using '令人' (makes people) as an adverbial phrase.

我想去那个令人心驰神往的小岛。

I want to go to that fascinating small island.

Using the idiom as a modifier for '小岛'.

大家对未来的生活都心驰神往。

Everyone longs for their future life.

Subject '大家' + '对...心驰神往'.

这本关于宇宙的书让我心驰神往。

This book about the universe makes me fascinated.

Using a specific object '书' (book) as the cause.

他描述的森林生活令人心驰神往。

The forest life he described makes one long for it.

Describing a lifestyle.

我对那个遥远的国家心驰神往。

I long for that distant country.

Focusing on '遥远' (distant) as a trigger for longing.

电影里的英雄世界让人心驰神往。

The world of heroes in the movie makes people fascinated.

Using '让人' (makes people) in a general sense.

那座高山真是令人心驰神往的地方。

That high mountain is truly a place that makes people long for it.

Noun phrase construction: '...的地方'.

老师讲的历史故事让我心驰神往。

The history stories the teacher told made me fascinated.

Abstract longing for the past.

我对未来的科技世界心驰神往。

I long for the future world of technology.

Longing for a time period.

美丽的星空令无数人心驰神往。

The beautiful starry sky makes countless people fascinated.

Using '无数人' (countless people) as the object of '令'.

巴黎的艺术气息令许多艺术家心驰神往。

The artistic atmosphere of Paris makes many artists long for it.

Using specific groups like '艺术家' (artists).

我对那种自由自在的旅行方式心驰神往。

I long for that free and easy way of traveling.

Describing an abstract concept (freedom).

那部纪录片展现的自然奇观令人心驰神往。

The natural wonders shown in that documentary are captivating.

Using '展现' (show/display) with the idiom.

虽然路途遥远，但他对珠穆朗玛峰依然心驰神往。

Although the journey is long, he still longs for Mount Everest.

Using '虽然...但是...' for contrast.

这种宁静的生活是我一直心驰神往的。

This kind of peaceful life is what I have always longed for.

Using '是...的' to emphasize the state.

科学的神秘世界令每一个好奇的孩子心驰神往。

The mysterious world of science makes every curious child fascinated.

Using '每一个' (every) for generalization.

听到你的描述，我也不禁对那里心驰神往了。

Hearing your description, I couldn't help but long for that place too.

Using '不禁' (cannot help but).

古代诗人的那种洒脱境界令人心驰神往。

The free and easy state of mind of ancient poets makes one long for it.

Describing a spiritual state (境界).

那座古城的历史底蕴令人心驰神往，仿佛能穿越时空。

The historical depth of that ancient city is captivating, as if one could travel through time.

B2 uses more complex nouns like '历史底蕴' (historical depth).

他那富有感染力的演讲让听众对未来充满了心驰神往。

His infectious speech filled the audience with a deep longing for the future.

Using '充满了' (filled with) before the idiom (as a noun-like state).

这种极简主义的生活哲学确实令人心驰神往。

This minimalist philosophy of life is indeed fascinating.

Applying the idiom to a 'philosophy' (哲学).

在繁华的都市中，人们往往对田园生活心驰神往。

In the bustling city, people often long for a pastoral life.

Using '往往' (often) to describe a general trend.

那场关于星际旅行的展览令无数科幻迷心驰神往。

That exhibition about interstellar travel fascinated countless sci-fi fans.

Targeting a specific subculture (科幻迷).

虽然从未去过南极，但我对那片纯净的冰雪世界心驰神往已久。

Although I've never been to Antarctica, I have longed for that pure world of ice and snow for a long time.

Adding '已久' (for a long time) to show duration.

文学作品中描绘的英雄情怀总是令人心驰神往。

The heroic spirit depicted in literary works is always captivating.

Abstract concept: '英雄情怀' (heroic spirit).

这种跨越国界的友谊令每一个热爱和平的人心驰神往。

This friendship that spans borders makes every peace-loving person long for it.

Using '跨越国界' (spanning borders) as a modifier.

敦煌壁画所展现的艺术造诣，令中外学者都为之心驰神往。

The artistic achievements shown in the Dunhuang murals make scholars both from China and abroad long for them.

C1 uses '为之' (for it/because of it) structure.

那种超脱世俗、回归自然的隐居生活，着实令人心驰神往。

That kind of secluded life, transcending worldly affairs and returning to nature, is truly fascinating.

High-level vocabulary like '超脱世俗' (transcend worldly affairs).

在这部宏大的史诗中，作者构建了一个令人心驰神往的神话体系。

In this grand epic, the author constructed a captivating mythological system.

Using '构建' (construct) and '体系' (system).

尽管现实残酷，但他内心深处始终保留着一份心驰神往的理想。

Despite the harsh reality, he always kept a cherished ideal in the depths of his heart.

Using the idiom as an adjective for '理想' (ideal).

这种深邃而神秘的思想境界，令无数哲学家为之心驰神往。

This profound and mysterious state of thought makes countless philosophers long for it.

Focusing on '思想境界' (state of thought).

音乐家笔下的旋律如行云流水，令听众心驰神往，陶醉其中。

The melodies under the musician's pen are like flowing clouds and water, making the audience long for them and be intoxicated by them.

Combining idioms: '行云流水' and '陶醉其中'.

那片未被开发的原始森林，充满了令探险家心驰神往的未知奥秘。

That undeveloped primeval forest is full of unknown mysteries that make explorers long for it.

Using '充满了...的未知奥秘' (full of unknown mysteries).

这种追求极致完美的匠人精神，确实令人心驰神往。

This craftsman spirit of pursuing ultimate perfection is indeed fascinating.

Describing '匠人精神' (craftsman spirit).

魏晋名士那种放浪形骸、纵情山水的风骨，令后世文人心驰神往。

The character of the Wei and Jin scholars, who were unconventional and indulged in landscapes, makes later literati long for it.

C2 involves historical and cultural references (魏晋名士).

在这场跨越时空的对话中，我们对古人的智慧感到由衷的心驰神往。

In this dialogue across time and space, we feel a heartfelt longing for the wisdom of the ancients.

Using '由衷的' (heartfelt) to modify the idiom state.

这种物我两忘、天人合一的至高境界，是无数修行者心驰神往的目标。

This supreme state of forgetting both self and object, and the harmony between man and nature, is the goal that countless practitioners long for.

Philosophical concepts: '物我两忘', '天人合一'.

他用细腻的笔触勾勒出一幅令人心驰神往的江南水乡图。

With delicate brushstrokes, he outlined a captivating picture of the Jiangnan water town.

Using '勾勒' (outline/sketch) and artistic context.

这种对真理不懈追求的精神，其本身就具有一种令人心驰神往的力量。

This spirit of relentless pursuit of truth itself possesses a captivating power.

Abstract power: '令人心驰神往的力量'.

尽管那是不可企及的乌托邦，人们却从未停止对其心驰神往。

Although it is an unattainable utopia, people have never stopped longing for it.

Using '对其' (for it) with the idiom.

那场歌剧所营造的悲剧美学，令在场观众无不心驰神往，深受震撼。

The tragic aesthetics created by that opera made every audience member present long for it and be deeply shocked.

Using '无不' (none not/everyone).

这种融汇中西、贯通古今的文化气象，着实令人心驰神往。

This cultural atmosphere that integrates China and the West, and connects the past and present, is truly fascinating.

Complex cultural descriptors.

Common Collocations

令人心驰神往

对...心驰神往

心驰神往已久

无限心驰神往

让人心驰神往

充满了心驰神往

心驰神往的境界

不禁心驰神往

心驰神往的梦想

感到心驰神往

Common Phrases

心驰神往的地方

— A place that one longs for. Used often in travel.

西藏是我心驰神往的地方。

令我心驰神往

— Makes me long for it. A standard way to express fascination.

那里的美景令我心驰神往。

心驰神往的未来

— A future that one dreams of. Used in motivational contexts.

我们要为了那个心驰神往的未来而努力。

一直心驰神往

— To have been longing for something for a long time.

我对南极一直心驰神往。

心驰神往的魅力

— The charm that makes people long for something.

这就是艺术令人心驰神往的魅力。

心驰神往的意境

— A captivating artistic mood or atmosphere.

这幅画营造了一种心驰神往的意境。

心驰神往的传说

— A captivating legend or myth.

那个古老的传说令人心驰神往。

心驰神往的自由

— The freedom that one spiritually longs for.

他追求那种令人心驰神往的自由。

心驰神往的远方

— The distant place that calls to one's soul.

每个人心中都有一个心驰神往的远方。

心驰神往的时刻

— A moment one looks forward to with great excitement.

那是令人心驰神往的时刻。

Often Confused With

心驰神往 vs 向往 (xiàngwǎng)

向往 is more common and less intense. 心驰神往 is more poetic and spiritual.

心驰神往 vs 心猿意马 (xīn yuán yì mǎ)

This means restless or distracted, not longing for something beautiful.

心驰神往 vs 流连忘返 (liú lián wàng fǎn)

This means being there and not wanting to leave. 心驰神往 is wanting to be there.

Idioms & Expressions

"魂牵梦萦"

— To be so concerned or attached to something that it appears in dreams.

家乡的美景令我魂牵梦萦。

Very Formal

"朝思暮想"

— To yearn for something day and night.

这是他朝思暮想的机会。

Common

"流连忘返"

— To be so attracted by a place that one forgets to return.

这里的景色让人流连忘返。

Common

"梦寐以求"

— To crave something even in one's sleep.

他终于得到了梦寐以求的奖杯。

Common

"情有独钟"

— To have a special fondness for a particular person or thing.

他对比萨饼情有独钟。

Common

"念念不忘"

— To keep something in mind constantly.

他对那次旅行念念不忘。

Common

"望眼欲穿"

— To look forward to something with extreme eagerness (eyes almost piercing through).

母亲望眼欲穿地等着儿子回家。

Literary

"心猿意马"

— Restless and whimsical (heart like a monkey, mind like a horse). Note: Different from 心驰神往.

他上课时总是心猿意马。

Common

"如痴如醉"

— To be obsessed or fascinated (as if drunk or crazy).

观众听得如痴如醉。

Common

"心旷神怡"

— Relaxed and happy (mind broad and spirit joyful).

这里的空气让人心旷神怡。

Common

Easily Confused

心驰神往 vs 魂牵梦萦 (hún qiān mèng yíng)

Both describe deep longing.

魂牵梦萦 is more about nostalgia or a persistent, almost painful obsession. 心驰神往 is more about fascination and attraction.

家乡令我魂牵梦萦；远方令我心驰神往。

心驰神往 vs 梦寐以求 (mèng mèi yǐ qiú)

Both involve dreams/longing.

梦寐以求 emphasizes the desire to *obtain* or *achieve* something. 心驰神往 emphasizes the *attraction* of the thing itself.

这是我梦寐以求的奖牌；那里的景色令人心驰神往。

心驰神往 vs 神往 (shénwǎng)

It is the shortened form.

They mean the same thing, but 心驰神往 is more rhythmic and formal as a four-character idiom.

令人神往 vs. 令人心驰神往.

心驰神往 vs 憧憬 (chōngjǐng)

Both look toward the future.

憧憬 is specifically about looking forward to a future event or state with hope. 心驰神往 can be about a place that exists now.

憧憬未来；对西藏心驰神往。

心驰神往 vs 醉心 (zuìxīn)

Both describe being fascinated.

醉心 implies being 'drunk' on or fully immersed in an activity. 心驰神往 implies a distance between the person and the object.

他醉心于研究；他对太空心驰神往。

Sentence Patterns

A 让 B 心驰神往。

大海让我心驰神往。

B 对 A 心驰神往。

我对那个城市心驰神往。

令人心驰神往的 + Noun

这是一个令人心驰神往的地方。

A 令 B 心驰神往已久。

那次旅行令我心驰神往已久。

B 对 A 充满了心驰神往。

她对未来充满了心驰神往。

A 之 B，令 C 为之心驰神往。

敦煌之美，令学者为之心驰神往。

Noun + 这种 + Noun，着实令人心驰神往。

隐居这种生活方式，着实令人心驰神往。

在...中，B 不禁对 A 心驰神往。

在喧嚣的城市中，我不禁对田园生活心驰神往。

Word Family

Nouns

神往 (shénwǎng - yearning/fascination)

Verbs

驰 (chí - to gallop/speed)

往 (wǎng - to go/head toward)

驰骋 (chíchěng - to gallop/roam freely)

Adjectives

神往的 (shénwǎng de - fascinating/longed-for)

心神 (xīnshén - state of mind)

向往 (xiàngwǎng - to long for)

驰名 (chímíng - famous/renowned)

向往 (xiàngwǎng - yearning)

神气 (shénqì - spirit/air)

How to Use It

frequency

High in written Chinese and formal media; Moderate in spoken Chinese.

Common Mistakes

Using it for food. → 我对那个蛋糕垂涎三尺。
心驰神往 is for grand/spiritual things, not physical hunger.
Using it as a direct verb: 我心驰神往西藏。 → 我对西藏心驰神往。
You need the preposition '对' or the causative '令/让'.
Confusing '驰' (chí) with '池' (chí). → 心驰神往
One is 'gallop' (horse radical), the other is 'pond' (water radical).
Using it for a person you like. → 我对他很倾慕。
心驰神往 is not usually used for romantic attraction to a person.
Using it in very informal slang. → 我超想去那里！
心驰神往 is a literary Chengyu and can sound too stiff in casual talk.

Tips

Pair with '令' for Writing

When writing an essay, use '令我心驰神往'. It sounds more professional and academic than using '让'.

Travel Blog Essential

If you write a travel blog in Chinese, this is a 'must-have' word to describe destinations.

Don't Overuse

Because it's a strong word, don't use it more than once in a short paragraph. Use '向往' as a secondary option.

Mind the Second Tones

Both 'chí' and 'shén' are second tones. Make sure your voice rises on both.

Artistic descriptions

Use it when describing your feelings about a painting, a poem, or a piece of music.

Adjective Use

You can use it as '令人心驰神往的 + Noun'. For example: '令人心驰神往的未来'.

Nuance vs. Desire

Remember it's about 'fascination,' not just 'wanting to own' something.

Character Practice

Practice writing '驰' (gallop) so you don't confuse it with '池' (pond).

Emotional Delivery

When speaking, say it with a bit of wonder in your voice to match the meaning.

Documentary Practice

Watch Chinese nature documentaries; you will hear this word often.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a **HEART** (心) on a **HORSE** (驰) galloping toward its **SPIRITUAL** (神) home where it wants to **GO** (往).

Visual Association

Visualize a glowing heart riding a white stallion across a bridge of stars toward a beautiful, distant castle.

Word Web

心 (Heart) 驰 (Gallop) 神 (Spirit) 往 (Go) 梦想 (Dream) 向往 (Longing) 远方 (Distance) 美丽 (Beauty)

Challenge

Try to write a sentence using '心驰神往' to describe your absolute dream vacation spot. Make sure to use the '令我' structure.

Word Origin

This idiom comes from classical Chinese literature where '驰' (gallop) was often used to describe the fast movement of thoughts. The combination of 'heart' (心) and 'spirit' (神) represents the totality of one's internal self. It reflects the ancient Chinese philosophical view that the mind can travel to places where the body cannot.

Original meaning: The heart gallops and the soul goes toward a desired place or ideal.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese Chengyu)

Cultural Context

This is a very positive and safe word to use in all social settings.

Similar to 'captivated' or 'spellbound,' but with a stronger emphasis on the 'journey' of the mind.

Documentaries about the Forbidden City (故宫). Travel essays by famous writers like Xu Xiake. Modern Chinese pop songs about traveling to Tibet or the grassland.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Travel and Tourism

心驰神往的胜地
令人神往的风景
令人心驰神往的旅程
对那个城市心驰神往

Art and Literature

心驰神往的意境
笔下的世界令人心驰神往
对英雄主义的心驰神往
文学作品中的心驰神往

Future Aspirations

心驰神往的未来
令人心驰神往的目标
对理想生活的心驰神往
一个心驰神往的梦想

Music and Performance

令观众心驰神往的旋律
心驰神往的艺术表演
在音乐中感到心驰神往
陶醉而心驰神往

History and Culture

对古代文明的心驰神往
历史故事令人心驰神往
心驰神往的文化遗产
对传统精神的心驰神往

Conversation Starters

"你有没有哪个特别想去，甚至可以说是心驰神往的地方？ (Is there a place you especially want to go, one you could say you long for?)"

"哪种生活方式最令你心驰神往？ (What kind of lifestyle do you long for the most?)"

"你看过哪部电影或书，里面描绘的世界让你心驰神往？ (Have you seen a movie or book where the world depicted made you fascinated?)"

"你对未来的科技发展有什么心驰神往的期待吗？ (Do you have any fascinating expectations for future technological developments?)"

"你觉得什么样的艺术作品最能让人产生心驰神往的感觉？ (What kind of artwork do you think best evokes a sense of fascination?)"

Journal Prompts

描写一个令你心驰神往的旅游目的地。为什么它如此吸引你？ (Describe a travel destination you long for. Why is it so attractive?)

如果你可以生活在任何一个历史时期，哪一个会令你心驰神往？ (If you could live in any historical period, which one would you long for?)

反思一下你对成功的定义。那个目标是否令你心驰神往，还是只是压力？ (Reflect on your definition of success. Does that goal fascinate you, or is it just pressure?)

写一段关于你理想中“家”的样子，用“心驰神往”来描述那种感觉。 (Write about your ideal 'home' and use the idiom to describe that feeling.)

描述一次你看到美景或听到音乐时，感到“心驰神往”的瞬间。 (Describe a moment when you saw beauty or heard music and felt 'captivated'.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. We usually use '倾慕' (qīngmù) or '爱慕' (àimù) for people. '心驰神往' is used for places, ideals, or artistic works. However, you could say you '心驰神往' a person's *lifestyle* or *achievements*.

It might sound a bit too formal or dramatic. If you are joking about how much you want to go on a trip, it's fine. Otherwise, '我很想去' is more natural.

'令' (lìng) is slightly more formal and literary than '让' (ràng). In written Chinese, '令' is preferred with '心驰神往'.

No, it is almost exclusively positive. It describes being attracted to something beautiful or good.

It has the 'horse' (马) radical on the left and '也' (yě) on the right. Remember, it's about a horse galloping!

Yes, it is typically found in HSK 5 or 6 level materials as it is a standard Chengyu.

Only if you are being very funny. It's too grand a word for a hamburger.

It means to gallop or to run fast. It's often used for horses or fast cars.

It means 'spirit' or 'mind.' It refers to your inner consciousness.

Yes, '心旷神怡' (xīn kuàng shén yí), which means feeling relaxed and happy.