意气扬扬 — “To look highly pleased with oneself”

Q: What is the Chinese definition of 意气扬扬?

扬扬：得意的样子。形容很得意的样子。

意气扬扬 is a Chinese idiom (chengyu) meaning “to look highly pleased with oneself”. To be in high spirits and very self-satisfied; proudly and triumphantly. Literally, “spirited and triumphant”.

Frequency

意气扬扬 Pronunciation and Pinyin

意气扬扬 Character Breakdown

Stroke Order

Character	Pinyin	Strokes	Meaning
意	yì	13	idea, meaning, intention
气	qì	4	air, gas, spirit, anger
扬	yáng	6	raise, praise, or scatter
扬	yáng	6	raise, praise, or scatter

Example Sentence with 意气扬扬

他成功完成了任务，意气扬扬地走出了会议室，脸上挂着得意的笑容。

He successfully completed the task and walked out of the conference room, looking proud and triumphant, with a smug smile on his face.

Origin and Story of 意气扬扬

During the Spring and Autumn period, Yan Ying, the prime minister of Qi, went out in his carriage. Yan Ying was known for his humility and courtesy. However, his coachman, as he drove the horses, cracked his whip and looked exceedingly proud and self-satisfied, beaming with triumph.

The coachman's wife happened to witness this scene and, upon returning home, advised her husband not to be so arrogant and presumptuous, relying on his master's influence.

The very next day, the coachman immediately changed his attitude, displaying modesty and respect. Yan Ying noticed this change and, recognizing his willingness to correct himself, considered him a promising talent.