To speak fluently and eloquently, like a gushing river that flows ceaselessly; to be a brilliant and unstoppable talker.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
The idiom "口若悬河" (kǒu ruò xuán hé) comes from the Jin Dynasty. It means to speak fluently and eloquently, like a gushing river that flows ceaselessly.
The story originates from the 'Biography of Guo Xiang' in the 'Book of Jin'. Guo Xiang, courtesy name Zixuan, was a brilliant scholar during the Jin Dynasty. Even in his youth, he was remarkably talented.
He meticulously observed everyday phenomena and deeply pondered their underlying principles, leading to his vast knowledge and unique insights. He later immersed himself in the philosophies of Laozi and Zhuangzi, achieving a profound understanding. After several years, the imperial court repeatedly summoned him, and he eventually accepted the position of Huangmen Shilang.
In the capital, his extensive knowledge allowed him to articulate any subject with clarity and logic. Coupled with his exceptional eloquence and eagerness to share his opinions, his discussions were always captivating.
Grand Commandant Wang Yan greatly admired Guo Xiang's speaking prowess. He often praised Guo Xiang, saying, "Listening to Guo Xiang speak is like a river pouring down from a suspended height, gushing endlessly without ever running dry." This vividly illustrates Guo Xiang's extraordinary rhetorical talent.
Later generations adopted "口若悬河" to describe someone who is skilled in speaking, whose words flow continuously like an unstoppable river.