Chinese Idiom Stories: 光風霽月 (guāng fēng jì yuè)

Table of Contents

Idiom: 光風霽月 (guāng fēng jì yuè)

Literal Meaning: Bright Breeze and Clear Moon
Explanation: 光風霽月 (guāng fēng jì yuè) describes a person of pure character and an open heart, similar to a bright, clear sky after rain. The idiom signifies a noble and honest personality, often referring to someone whose thoughts and actions are as refreshing and clear as a beautiful, moonlit night after a storm.

Chinese Idiom Stories

The idiom “光風霽月” originates from ancient China, symbolizing a time after rain when the sky becomes bright and clear, much like the calm after a storm.

It was first used to describe natural beauty and later evolved to portray admirable qualities in a person, such as honesty, integrity, and openness.

A person described as “光風霽月” is someone with a heart as clear as the moon and as refreshing as a gentle breeze—true to themselves and kind-hearted. In traditional Chinese culture, these qualities were highly valued, representing a person’s moral integrity.

Idiom Example Sentences

他為人光風霽月，從不欺瞞他人。
- Tā wéirén guāng fēng jì yuè, cóng bù qīmán tārén.
- He is an honest person who never deceives others.
政客光風霽月的品格，讓學生們深感敬佩。
- zhèng kè guāng fēng jì yuè de pǐngé, ràng xuéshēngmen shēnggǎn jìngpèi.
- The politician’s upright character earns great respect from the students.

Practice Exercise

你身邊有沒有像「光風霽月」一樣誠實正直的人？他們的行為讓你有什麼感受？
- Nǐ shēnbiān yǒu méiyǒu xiàng “guāng fēng jì yuè” yīyàng chéngshí zhèngzhí de rén? Tāmen de xíngwéi ràng nǐ yǒu shénme gǎnshòu?
- Do you know anyone who is as honest and straightforward as “光風霽月”? How do you feel about their behavior?
  - Answer: Answers may vary based on personal experiences.