keep silent like a cicada in cold weather(jìn ruò hán chán)

keep silent like a cicada in cold weather

Silent as a cicada, a Chinese idiom, pronounced J ì NRU ò h á NCH á n, originally means to stop singing like a cicada in winter. The latter figure of speech has a derogatory meaning because of fear. It comes from the biography of Du MI in the book of the later Han Dynasty.

Analysis of Idioms

[synonym] tongue tied and tight lipped [antonym] eloquent and eloquent

The origin of Idioms

"The book of the later Han Dynasty, Du Mi Zhuan:" Liu Shengwei is a doctor. When he sees a guest of honor, he knows that he is good but does not recommend him. When he hears evil, he has no words. He cherishes himself in secret. He is also a sinner

Idiom story

During the Han Dynasty, Yin dumi was incorruptible and acted in accordance with the law. He was dismissed because he offended the eunuch and returned to his hometown in Yingchuan. He was also very concerned about national affairs. He criticized Liu Sheng for leaving his post and returning home indifferent to political affairs, just like a cicada in cold weather. During the reign of emperor Hanling, dumy was used again.

Idiom usage

He is afraid to speak. When his words were over, several people clapped loudly, while more people kept silent and looked at each other. Chapter 38 of song of youth by Yang Mo

Chinese PinYin : jìn ruò hán chán