Introduction
In the vast and rich landscape of the Chinese language, idioms hold a special place, conveying complex emotions and ideas within a few characters. One such idiom is 心驚肉跳 (xīn jīng ròu tiào), a phrase that speaks to experiences of fear and excitement. In this article, we will delve deep into the meaning, grammatical structure, and practical examples of this intriguing expression.
Understanding the Meaning of 心驚肉跳
At its core, 心驚肉跳 can be broken down as follows:
- 心 (xīn): heart
- 驚 (jīng): to be startled or frightened
- 肉 (ròu): meat, but here referring to the physical body’s reaction
- 跳 (tiào): to jump or leap
The literal translation can be understood as “the heart is startled and the flesh jumps,” which metaphorically describes a state of heightened emotional response characterized by a mixture of fear and excitement. It often implies an acute sense of danger or an unexpected event that causes the heart to race.
Grammatical Structure of 心驚肉跳
The structure of 心驚肉跳 is emblematic of many Chinese idioms, often comprising four characters that create a vivid image or emotional state. It follows a pattern common in Chinese literature where each character contributes to an overall meaning:
- The first two characters (心驚) indicate an emotional reaction—fear or surprise.
- The last two characters (肉跳) suggest a physical manifestation of that emotion—such as the heart racing or the body jumping.
This idiomatic structure is effective in succinctly expressing complex feelings in a culturally resonant way. Understanding this pattern can significantly enhance one’s comprehension and use of Chinese idioms.
Example Sentences Using 心驚肉跳
Below are several examples illustrating how 心驚肉跳 can be effectively used in sentences:
1. Past Experience
在那场惊险的电影中,我真的感到心驚肉跳。
(Zài nà chǎng jīngxiǎn de diànyǐng zhōng, wǒ zhēn de gǎndào xīn jīng ròu tiào.)
Translation: “In that thrilling movie, I really felt my heart racing and my flesh jumping.”
2. Unexpected News
当他告诉我这则坏消息时,我心驚肉跳。
(Dāng tā gàosù wǒ zhè zé huài xiāoxi shí, wǒ xīn jīng ròu tiào.)
Translation: “When he told me the bad news, I felt my heart skip a beat.”
3. Anticipation
比赛开始前,我的心情十分紧张,心驚肉跳。
(Bǐsài kāishǐ qián, wǒ de xīnqíng shífēn jǐnzhāng, xīn jīng ròu tiào.)
Translation: “Before the match began, I was extremely nervous, my heart racing.”
4. Scary Situation
晚上走在黑暗的小巷里,我感到心驚肉跳。
(Wǎnshàng zǒu zài hēi’àn de xiǎo xiàng lǐ, wǒ gǎndào xīn jīng ròu tiào.)
Translation: “Walking in the dark alley at night, I felt an overwhelming sense of dread.”
Conclusion
The phrase 心驚肉跳 (xīn jīng ròu tiào) serves not only as a linguistic tool but also as a reflection of the emotional complexities of human experience. Whether used in literature, conversation, or casual expressions, it encapsulates the thrill and terror that accompany unexpected moments in life. By understanding its meaning, structure, and application, you can enrich your command of the Chinese language and express sentiments with greater depth and cultural significance.

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