zhíyánbùhuì: 直言不讳 - To speak frankly without holding back

• Keywords: zhi yan bu hui, zhíyánbùhuì, 直言不讳, Chinese idiom for frankness, speak frankly Chinese, direct communication in China, outspoken in Chinese, Chinese bluntness, how to be direct in Chinese, 直言不讳 meaning
• Summary: Discover the meaning of 直言不讳 (zhíyánbùhuì), a powerful Chinese idiom for speaking with complete frankness and honesty, even when the truth is difficult or uncomfortable. This guide explores its cultural significance, contrasting the virtue of directness with the social importance of “face” (面子) and harmony. Learn how to use it correctly in modern conversation, business, and social situations with practical examples and avoid common mistakes.

• Pinyin (with tone marks): zhí yán bù huì
• Part of Speech: Chengyu (四字成语), functions as an adverb, verb, or adjective.
• HSK Level: HSK 6
• Concise Definition: To speak directly and frankly, without concealing anything or avoiding sensitive topics.
• In a Nutshell: Imagine you have to tell your best friend something they don't want to hear, but you know it's for their own good. That act of speaking the unvarnished, difficult truth is the essence of `直言不讳`. It's not about being rude; it's about being courageously honest. It implies speaking without evasion or mincing words, often on a matter of importance.

• 直 (zhí): Straight, direct. Think of a straight line, with no curves or detours.
• 言 (yán): To speak, speech, words.
• 不 (bù): Not, no. A simple negation.
• 讳 (huì): To hide, conceal, or avoid mentioning something (often out of taboo or fear). This is the most crucial character. It refers to the act of deliberately avoiding a topic.

When combined, the characters literally mean “straight speech, not concealing.” This