5 Questions
What is the idiomatic meaning of 鑿壁偷光?
To gain insight or understanding by indirect or secret means
What is an example of when you might use 鑿壁偷光?
When you want to learn about something confidential or not publicly disclosed
What is another idiom similar to 鑿壁偷光?
探聽風聲 (tàn tīng fēng shuǎi) - to gather information secretly
Why is 鑿壁偷光 often used in a negative context?
Because it implies that the information is not meant to be shared or is confidential
What is the literal meaning of 鑿壁偷光?
To steal a glimpse of light by boring a hole in the wall
Study Notes
鑿壁偷光: Idiomatic Expressions
Meaning: To steal a glimpse of light by boring a hole in the wall.
Idiomatic Meaning: To gain insight or understanding by indirect or secret means.
Usage:
- To learn about something confidential or not publicly disclosed.
- To obtain information through unofficial or unapproved channels.
Example Sentences:
- She tried to 鑿壁偷光 about the company's new project by talking to an insider.
- The journalist tried to 鑿壁偷光 about the government's secret plans.
Similar Idioms:
- 打聽消息 (dǎ tīng xiāoxi) - to gather information secretly
- 探聽風聲 (tàn tīng fēng shuǎi) - to gather information secretly
Note: 鑿壁偷光 is often used in a negative context, implying that the information is not meant to be shared or is confidential.
Test your understanding of the Chinese idiomatic expression 鑿壁偷光, which means to gain insight or understanding by indirect or secret means. Learn its usage, example sentences, and similar idioms.
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