諺語 · a single proverb
穿針引線
Simplified: 穿针引线
What does 穿針引線 (chuān zhēn yǐn xiàn) mean?
穿針引線 (chuān zhēn yǐn xiàn) is a four-character classical idiom (chéngyǔ 成語). Word for word it reads "threading a needle and pulling the thread." In use it means: Acting as the connector who brings two sides together. The person who threads the needle does not do the sewing, but without them, the needle and the thread never meet. You reach for it when you want that idea in one breath, and the Metal note it carries is why we hand it to those born in the Year of the Rat.
Literally: "threading a needle and pulling the thread."
The reading
The matchmaker, the introducer, the person who says 'you two should talk.' They do not build the bridge. They point out that both sides of the river exist. This is a small act with large consequences. Most of the important relationships in your life started because someone threaded a needle you did not know needed threading.
What kind of proverb it is
Source classical metaphor; widespread usage in Chinese literature
Sits beside
Keep reading
Return to the Proverb Pond to draw another of the eighty-seven, or hear one read aloud. Read the rest of its chapter in Friendship, Trust & Speech, or follow the years these lines belong to: Year of the Rat, Year of the Ox, and Year of the Tiger.
Questions
Is 穿針引線 a real Chinese proverb?
Yes. 穿針引線 (chuān zhēn yǐn xiàn) is a four-character classical idiom (chéngyǔ 成語), and it comes from classical metaphor; widespread usage in Chinese literature. It is living Chinese heritage, given here with per-character pinyin and its source so you can trust the line, not a phrase invented in English.
How do you pronounce 穿針引線?
In Mandarin it is chuān zhēn yǐn xiàn. Read the pinyin above each character to follow the tones, or press the speaker beside the calligraphy to hear your browser read 穿針引線 aloud in Mandarin.