氷淸玉潔

빙청옥결 氷淸玉潔

Describing a person's character or conduct as being as clear as ice and as pure as jade, signifying impeccable integrity and unsullied virtue.

Chinese Idiom 4-character idiom Learn with Music
💡 TL;DR

빙청옥결 (氷淸玉潔): Describing a person's character or conduct as being as clear as ice and as pure as jade, signifying impeccable integrity and unsullied virtue.

1 Meaning

빙청옥결 (氷淸玉潔) means “Describing a person's character or conduct as being as clear as ice and as pure as jade, signifying impeccable integrity and unsullied virtue.”.

Bing-cheong-ok-gyeol (氷淸玉潔) literally translates to 'as clear as ice and as pure as jade.' it describes a person with exceptionally noble character and a heart free from defilement, symbolizing a steadfast commitment to one's principles despite external temptations.

2 Examples

1

When shortcuts and unethical practices for unfair gains are normalized and expected within a company culture.

Choosing to strictly follow honest procedures and moral standards even when everyone else is taking the easy way out.

2

Facing a barrage of baseless rumors and malicious criticism on social media that threatens your peace of mind.

Refusing to retaliate with the same negativity, instead staying focused on personal values and maintaining dignity.

3

During a period of stagnation or when external temptations arise in a long-term relationship.

Remembering the initial commitment made to a partner and protecting the relationship with unchanging sincerity.

3 Origin

Originating from classical texts like the 'Jingchu Suishiji' (Record of the Seasons in Jingchu), this idiom has historically been used to praise the unwavering integrity of scholars and the steadfast fidelity of those committed to their values. The combination of the transparency of ice (氷) and the flawless purity of jade (玉) represents the pinnacle of moral innocence. In a modern context, it echoes the sentiment of remaining untainted by the 'dust' of the world or washing away the 'noise' of society. It celebrates the strength required to protect one's essential nature and keep promises regardless of life's turbulent storms.

4 Key Lessons

1

Maintain your inner purity and do not allow negative environments to stain your character.

2

True strength is found in transparently upholding your principles and promises during difficult times.

3

A noble character is a timeless treasure that retains its value regardless of how much time passes.

5 English Expression

English Vocabulary

bow

굴하다, 굴복하다

"I will never bow to unfair pressure."

gloom

어둠, 우울함

"The morning sun dispersed the gloom of the night."

stay true

변치 않다, 신의를 지키다

"No matter what happens, you must stay true to yourself."

breaking through

돌파하다, 뚫고 나아가다

"The sun is finally breaking through the heavy clouds."

6 Learn with Music

빙청옥결 track image

빙청옥결 Track

Crystal Bright, Emerald True (氷淸玉潔)

“눈과 바람 속에서도 약속을 흐리지 않고 끝까지 맑게 지켜내는 마음”

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빙청옥결

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