玲珑剔透

玲瓏剔透

línglóngtītòu

idiom

Meanings

1 exquisitely fine and see-through
2 delicately and intricately crafted
3 nimble-minded; cleverly perceptive

Characters

tinkling / delicate

exquisite (jade)

to pass through / transparent

Examples

这件玉雕玲珑剔透，巧夺天工。

Zhè jiàn yù diāo líng lóng tī tòu, qiǎo duó tiān gōng.

This jade carving is exquisitely intricate — a marvel of craftsmanship.

小姑娘玲珑剔透，一点就透。

Xiǎo gūniang líng lóng tī tòu, yī diǎn jiù tòu.

The little girl is quick-witted — one hint and she gets it.

那盏琉璃灯玲珑剔透，美不胜收。

Nà zhǎn liúli dēng líng lóng tī tòu, měi bù shèng shōu.

That glass lantern is exquisitely translucent — a breathtaking sight.

Tips

usage

Two senses: (1) of objects — especially jade, glass, or carvings — finely and delicately made; (2) of people — mentally sharp, quick to pick up on things. Both are complimentary.

Stroke Order

玲 líng

珑 lóng

剔 tī

透 tòu