惺惺相惜 — “People of similar temperament”

惺惺相惜 is a Chinese idiom (chengyu) meaning “People of similar temperament”. Interests, or circumstances appreciate, empathize with, and support each other. Literally, “Like-minded individuals cherish each other”.

Frequency

惺惺相惜 Pronunciation and Pinyin

惺惺相惜 Character Breakdown

Stroke Order

Character	Pinyin	Strokes	Meaning
惺	xīng	12	awake or feigning emotion
惺	xīng	12	awake or feigning emotion
相	xiāng	9	mutual or appearance
惜	xī	11	cherish, regret, or begrudge

Example Sentence with 惺惺相惜

在文学研讨会上，两位诗人因对古典诗词的独特见解而惺惺相惜，深入交流。

At the literature seminar, the two poets, due to their unique insights into classical poetry, appreciated each other greatly and engaged in deep discussions.

Origin and Story of 惺惺相惜

During the Three Kingdoms period, Zhang Fei led ten thousand elite soldiers into Sichuan. As he approached Ba Commandery, he learned that its defender, Yan Yan, was an exceptionally capable general. Zhang Fei attempted to attack the city several times, but Yan Yan steadfastly refused to sally forth and engage.

Zhang Fei, therefore, resorted to a ruse, tricking Yan Yan out of the city. After a few skirmishes, Zhang Fei successfully captured Yan Yan alive.

Yan Yan, defiant, refused to surrender. However, Zhang Fei, recognizing Yan Yan's integrity and valor, treated him with utmost courtesy and respect. Deeply moved by Zhang Fei's magnanimity and sincerity, Yan Yan finally pledged his allegiance, signifying their mutual admiration despite being adversaries.