諺語 · a single proverb
溝通是金
Simplified: 沟通是金
What does 溝通是金 (gōu tōng shì jīn) mean?
溝通是金 (gōu tōng shì jīn) is a folk proverb (yànyǔ 諺語). Word for word it reads "communication is gold." In use it means: Clear, honest exchange between people is the most valuable currency in any relationship or enterprise. 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 Rooster.
Literally: "communication is gold."
The reading
The problem was not ability. Both sides were competent. The problem was that neither side told the other what they were actually thinking. The gap between them was not talent, not resources, not time. It was a sentence that neither of them said. Communication is gold because the things it prevents are far more expensive.
What kind of proverb it is
Source Modern common expression; business and relationship wisdom
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 Rooster, Year of the Rat, and Year of the Ox.
Questions
Is 溝通是金 a real Chinese proverb?
Yes. 溝通是金 (gōu tōng shì jīn) is a folk proverb (yànyǔ 諺語), and it comes from Modern common expression; business and relationship wisdom. 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 溝通是金?
In Mandarin it is gōu tōng shì jīn. Read the pinyin above each character to follow the tones, or press the speaker beside the calligraphy to hear your browser read 溝通是金 aloud in Mandarin.