Hey there, fellow globetrotters! As many of you prepare for your own special days or those of your friends and family back home, let’s dive into the wonderful world of Chinese idioms to find the most heartfelt wedding wishes. These aren’t just any old phrases; they’re packed with centuries of wisdom and good vibes. So, whether you’re a seasoned Sinophile or just starting to explore the language, here are 23 beautiful Chinese idioms to celebrate love and commitment. Let’s get started!
1. 白头偕老 (bái tóu xié lǎo) - Grow Old Together
Imagine two people, their hair as white as snow, still holding hands and smiling at each other after decades of life together. That’s what this idiom represents. It’s a beautiful wish for a long-lasting and loving relationship.
2. 比翼双飞 (bǐ yì shuāng fēi) - Fly Side by Side
This one is perfect for those who believe in soulmates. “比翼双飞” means that the couple will be as inseparable as two birds flying side by side. It’s a romantic way to express the hope that they’ll face life’s challenges together, hand in hand.
3. 百年好合 (bǎi nián hǎo hé) - A Century of Harmonious Union
A classic choice for wedding blessings, “百年好合” conveys the wish for a harmonious and happy marriage that lasts a lifetime. It’s like saying, “May your love only grow stronger with each passing year.”
4. 情投意合 (qíng tóu yì hé) - Perfect Match
For those who believe that true love is about finding someone who complements you perfectly, “情投意合” is the way to go. This idiom expresses the idea that the couple is not just compatible but also deeply connected on an emotional level.
5. 琴瑟和鸣 (qín sè hé míng) - In Harmony Like a Zither and a Lute
Picture a symphony where every note is in perfect harmony. That’s what “琴瑟和鸣” symbolizes. It’s a wish that the newlyweds’ lives will be filled with music and joy, always in tune with each other.
6. 鸳鸯比翼 (yuān yāng bǐ yì) - Mandarin Ducks Flying Side by Side
In Chinese culture, mandarin ducks are often used to symbolize devoted couples. “鸳鸯比翼” wishes the couple a lifelong companionship as close and loyal as these iconic birds.
7. 天作之合 (tiān zuò zhī hé) - Heaven-Made Match
When you truly believe that destiny brought two people together, “天作之合” is the perfect idiom to express it. It’s a wish that their union was meant to be, blessed by the heavens themselves.
8. 金玉满堂 (jīn yù mǎn táng) - A Hall Filled with Treasures
This idiom goes beyond material wealth. It’s a wish for a home filled with love, happiness, and prosperity. It’s like saying, “May your home be a treasure trove of joy.”
9. 佳偶天成 (jiā ǒu tiān chéng) - Perfect Couple Formed by Heaven
Another nod to destiny, “佳偶天成” celebrates the idea that some couples are simply meant to be. It’s a wish that their love was crafted by fate itself.
10. 心心相印 (xīn xīn xiāng yìn) - Hearts in Sync
For those who believe that love is about understanding and connection, “心心相印” is the perfect choice. It’s a wish that the couple’s hearts will always beat as one, no matter what life throws their way.
11. 花好月圆 (huā hǎo yuè yuán) - Beautiful Flowers and a Full Moon
This idiom paints a picture of perfection. It’s a wish for a marriage as flawless as a full moon on a clear night, surrounded by the beauty of flowers in full bloom.
12. 珠联璧合 (zhū lián bì hé) - Two Precious Stones Joined Together
Just like two precious stones complementing each other, “珠联璧合” is a wish that the couple will enhance each other’s lives, making them even more valuable together than they were apart.
13. 永结同心 (yǒng jié tóng xīn) - Forever United in Heart
A wish for a bond that stands the test of time, “永结同心” is all about lasting love and commitment. It’s a promise that the couple’s hearts will remain united forever.
14. 喜结连理 (xǐ jié lián lǐ) - Joyfully Bound Together
“喜结连理” is a joyful expression of the couple’s decision to join their lives together. It’s a wish for a marriage filled with happiness and celebration.
15. 鸿案相庄 (hóng àn xiāng zhuāng) - Honorable and Respectful
This idiom wishes the couple a marriage based on mutual respect and honor. It’s a wish for a relationship where both partners treat each other with dignity and kindness.
16. 永浴爱河 (yǒng yù ài hé) - Forever Bathed in Love
Imagine being surrounded by love, like bathing in a river of affection. “永浴爱河” is a wish for a marriage where love never fades, always present and overflowing.
17. 龙凤呈祥 (lóng fèng chéng xiáng) - Dragon and Phoenix Bringing Good Omens
In Chinese culture, dragons and phoenixes represent the perfect balance of masculine and feminine energies. “龙凤呈祥” is a wish for a harmonious union that brings good fortune and blessings.
18. 相敬如宾 (xiāng jìng rú bīn) - Treating Each Other with Respect and Dignity
“相敬如宾” is a wish for a marriage where both partners treat each other with the utmost respect and kindness, as if they were honored guests in their own home.
19. 百年偕老 (bǎi nián xié lǎo) - Growing Old Together for a Century
A variation of our first idiom, “百年偕老” emphasizes the longevity of the couple’s love and commitment. It’s a wish for a life shared together, growing old gracefully and happily.
20. 龙飞凤舞 (lóng fēi fèng wǔ) - Dragon Soaring, Phoenix Dancing
This idiom paints a vivid image of joy and vitality. It’s a wish for a marriage full of excitement and energy, where the couple’s love is as dynamic and beautiful as a dragon soaring and a phoenix dancing.
21. 早生贵子 (zǎo shēng guì zǐ) - Have a Healthy and Noble Child Soon
While this idiom is more specific, it’s a traditional wish for fertility and prosperity. It’s a blessing for a family that will continue to grow and thrive.
22. 家和万事兴 (jiā hé wàn shì xīng) - A Harmonious Home Brings Prosperity to All Things
This idiom wishes the couple a peaceful and harmonious home life, which will bring success and good fortune to all aspects of their lives.
23. 白首齐眉 (bái shǒu qí méi) - Growing Old Together with Mutual Respect
A final wish for a marriage that endures the test of time, “白首齐眉” emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and understanding. It’s a wish for a lifelong partnership built on love and respect.
There you have it, folks! Twenty-three beautiful Chinese idioms to express your warmest wishes for a happy marriage. Whether you’re writing a card or toasting at a wedding, these idioms will add a touch of cultural elegance and heartfelt sentiment to your message. Remember, love knows no boundaries, and neither does the language that celebrates it. Cheers to love and happiness, no matter where in the world you may be!
