Definition
名列前茅 is a four-character idiom meaning 'to rank among the very best' — literally 'one's name is listed among the front pennants,' a reference to ancient military flags. It's used for exam scores, competition results, or any ranking where someone consistently places near the top. Unlike the English 'top of the list,' it emphasizes sustained excellence rather than a single first-place finish.
f.e.
to rank among the bestto be at the top of the list
Examples
- 名列前茅。Tā zài zhè cì shùxué jìngsài zhōng míng liè qián máo.He ranked among the best in this math competition.
- 名列前茅。Wǒmen gōngsī de yèjì zài hángyè nèi míng liè qián máo.Our company's performance is among the best in the industry.
- ，名列前茅。Tā de lùnwén bèi píng wéi yī děng jiǎng, zhēnshi míng liè qián máo.Her paper was awarded first prize — truly among the best.
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