Definition
说三道四 is a four-character idiom meaning 'to gossip about others behind their backs' or 'to make unnecessary critical remarks'. The literal meaning is 'say three, talk four', but it describes the act of spreading rumors or making petty, negative comments. It is used as a verb phrase and often carries a disapproving tone.
f.e.
to gossip about othersto make irresponsible remarks
Examples
- 说三道四。Tā zǒng xǐhuan zài bèihòu shuì.She always likes to gossip behind others' backs.
- 说三道四。Bú yào duì biérén de sīshēnghuó shuì.Don't gossip about other people's private lives.
- 说三道四。Tāmen zài yìqǐ de shíhou zhǐhuì shuì.When they get together, they only gossip.
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