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March 24, 2026
实事求是(實事求是)shíshìqiúshì(shi2shi4qiu2shi4)
The idiom 实事求是 (shí shì qiú shì) means to seek truth from facts. It emphasizes a practical and realistic approach to problem-solving, encouraging individuals to base decisions on actual circumstances rather than ideals or assumptions. This phrase is often used in discussions about scientific research, policy-making, and effective management.
Frequency#30903DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
实事求是 is a foundational principle in Chinese governance and philosophy, reflecting the importance of pragmatism in Chinese political thought. This concept is often associated with the policies of Deng Xiaoping, who emphasized reform based on practical realities.
Memory Tip
Imagine a detective (实事) searching for clues (求) in the real world (是) to piece together the truth (是). The detective's commitment to facts over fiction helps you remember that this idiom is about grounding actions in reality.
Meanings of 实事求是
shíshìqiúshì(shi2shi4qiu2shi4)
1to seek truth from facts (idiom)
2to be practical and realistic
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About 实事求是
实事求是Simplified
實事求是Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
名词míngcínoun (n.)Part of Speech
#30903Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7AdvancedCEFRC2
Podcast: 实事求是
Podcast: 实事求是
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AI Study Notes for 实事求是
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a detective (实事) searching for clues (求) in the real world (是) to piece together the truth (是). The detective's commitment to facts over fiction helps you remember that this idiom is about grounding actions in reality.
Usage Notes
When using 实事求是, it's important to maintain a formal tone due to its philosophical and political connotations in Chinese discourse. Common collocations include '实事求是的态度' (a practical attitude) and '实事求是的精神' (the spirit of seeking truth from facts). Be careful with its tonal pronunciation, as incorrect tones can change the meaning.
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK Level 6 idiom, 实事求是 connects to other advanced vocabulary related to critical thinking and analysis. Students should focus on understanding its application in various contexts, such as debates and academic discussions.
Cultural Note
实事求是 is a foundational principle in Chinese governance and philosophy, reflecting the importance of pragmatism in Chinese political thought. This concept is often associated with the policies of Deng Xiaoping, who emphasized reform based on practical realities.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 实事求是 with similar idioms that emphasize ideals, leading to errors in context. For example, saying '实事求是的想法' (a thought of seeking truth from facts) instead of '实事求是的原则' (a principle of seeking truth from facts) is incorrect.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 实事求是
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Cultural Notes for 实事求是
🏮Cultural insight
实事求是 is a foundational principle in Chinese governance and philosophy, reflecting the importance of pragmatism in Chinese political thought. This concept is often associated with the policies of Deng Xiaoping, who emphasized reform based on practical realities.
Frequently Asked Questions about 实事求是
While it's not incorrect, this idiom is more suited for formal discussions or written contexts. In casual conversations, simpler phrases might be more appropriate.
The phrase originated from Chinese philosophy and has been widely used in political contexts to emphasize the importance of evidence-based decision-making.
