一言一行

1. Basic Information

• Pinyin: yì yán yì xíng
• English Translation: Every word and deed, words and actions
• Idiom Composition: 「一」（One）＋「言」（Word）＋「一」（One）＋「行」（Action）
• Meaning: Refers to a person's words and actions, encompassing all their conduct. It emphasizes the importance of consistency between words and actions as a reflection of one's character and thoughts, or is used to refer to the words and actions of a notable person.

2. Detailed Meaning and Nuances

「一言一行」 contains the following nuances:

• Consistency of words and actions: It can carry the moral implication that consistency between words and actions is important.
• Reflection of character: A person's 'every word and deed' is considered a mirror reflecting their character and essence.
• Notable words and actions: The words and actions of people with high social status or those in the spotlight are especially emphasized.

3. Usage

「一言一行」 is mainly used in the following contexts:

• Character evaluation: Used when evaluating a person's words and actions.
  • Example:「他一言一行都体现出他的高尚品格。」
    （His every word and deed reflects his noble character.）
• Describing a person in the spotlight: Used to describe the words and actions of a person who attracts attention.
  • Example:「作为公众人物，她的一言一行都受到媒体的关注。」
    （As a public figure, her every word and deed is closely watched by the media.）
• Lesson or advice: Used as a lesson or advice to be careful with one's words and actions, or to ensure consistency between them.
  • Example:「老师经常教导我们要谨慎自己的一言一行。」
    （The teacher often advises us to be careful with our words and actions.）

Additional Examples:

1. 在这个重要的会议上，他的一言一行都显得格外谨慎。
   （At this important meeting, his every word and deed was exceptionally cautious.）
2. 他总是言行一致，一言一行都让人信服。
   （He always acts consistently with his words, and his every word and deed is convincing.）
3. 领导干部的一言一行，群众都看在眼里，记在心上。
   （The every word and deed of leading officials is observed and remembered by the public.）
4. 父母的一言一行对孩子有着潜移默化的影响。
   （Parents' every word and deed subtly influence their children.）
5. 我们要时刻注意自己的一言一行，做一个文明的公民。
   （We must always be mindful of our words and actions and strive to be civilized citizens.）

4. Cultural Background and Notes

• In traditional Chinese culture, 'consistency between words and actions' has been regarded as a very important virtue. The idiom '一言一行' reflects this cultural background.

5. Similar and Opposite Idioms

• Similar Idioms:
  • 言行一致 (yán xíng yī zhì): Consistency between words and actions.
  • 谨言慎行 (jǐn yán shèn xíng): To be cautious in words and deeds.
• Opposite Idioms:
  • 言行不一 (yán xíng bù yī): Inconsistency between words and actions.

6. Summary

'一言一行' is an idiom reflecting the traditional Chinese value of 'consistency between words and actions' and is based on the idea that a person's words and actions represent their character. Understanding this cultural background will help you use this idiom more appropriately.