Definition
典故 refers to an allusion or quotation drawn from classical Chinese literature, historical events, or legends. Understanding a 典故 usually requires knowledge of the original story or text — it's a culturally loaded reference that enriches speech or writing, common in formal essays, poetry, and idioms.
n.
allusion (to classical literature or historical events)literary quotation
Examples
- 典故，。Zhè piān wénzhāng yòng le hěnduō diǎn gù, dú qǐlái hěn yǒu shēndù.This article uses many allusions, making it quite profound to read.
- 典故。Lǎoshī jiěshì le zhège diǎn gù de chūchù.The teacher explained the source of this allusion.
- 典故。Bù dǒng diǎn gù de rén hěn nán lǐjiě zhè shǒu shī.People who don't understand allusions will have difficulty grasping this poem.
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