A Dictionary of Proverbs

Author: Dong Xiaoyu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-01
Features: Proverbs, also known as "common sayings" or "folk expressions," are colloquial and widely circulated fixed phrases or sentences. Most of them are created by the general populace in the process of productive labor and social life, reflecting the life experience and aspirations of the people. They are an integral part of the Chinese linguistic framework and hold significant importance in the Chinese language. They possess national, regional, and vibrant vitality. Not only are they numerous, but they are also concise, vivid, and vividly expressive, making them extensively used in oral communication and literary works. Publishing a reference work like the Dictionary of Proverbs plays a positive role in promoting national culture, preserving linguistic materials, and fostering the accumulation and development of culture.
Generally, people understand proverbs in a broad sense—any colloquial and widely circulated phrases or sentences are referred to as proverbs. In reality, they encompass maxims, aphorisms, epigrams, as well as some idioms, proverbs with puns, and slang. Although the content of proverbs is relatively complex, broadly speaking, they should possess characteristics such as widespread popularity, distinct colloquialism, and colloquial simplicity, as well as relative fixation.
The Chinese language has a long history and is deeply rooted. Proverbs have evolved over time and are scattered throughout historical documents across generations. Professor Dong Xiaoyu of Southwest Normal University led a team of scholars in collecting, organizing, and compiling this Dictionary of Proverbs, a truly commendable effort.