Meaning and Usage
"司空见惯" is a Chinese idiom used to describe something that is very common or frequently seen, to the point that it no longer surprises or attracts attention. It literally means "seen often by the Minister of Works," referring to something so usual that even an official responsible for public works would be accustomed to it.
Contexts
This phrase is often used to talk about everyday occurrences, common mistakes, or familiar situations in work, life, or society. It carries a neutral to slightly negative tone, implying that the event or phenomenon is so frequent it may cause indifference or annoyance.
Common Collocations
Usage Tips
Use "司空见惯" when you want to emphasize that something is no longer novel or surprising because it happens so often. Avoid using it for rare or exceptional events. It is often used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as news reports, workplace discussions, or social commentary.
Avoid Confusion
Do not confuse "司空见惯" with words that mean "habit" or "custom" alone. This idiom specifically highlights the frequency and commonness of an event or situation, not just a personal habit.
Meaning and Usage
"司空见惯" is a Chinese idiom used to describe something that is very common or frequently seen, to the point that it no longer surprises or attracts attention. It literally means "seen often by the Minister of Works," referring to something so usual that even an official responsible for public works would be accustomed to it.
Contexts
This phrase is often used to talk about everyday occurrences, common mistakes, or familiar situations in work, life, or society. It carries a neutral to slightly negative tone, implying that the event or phenomenon is so frequent it may cause indifference or annoyance.
Common Collocations
Usage Tips
Use "司空见惯" when you want to emphasize that something is no longer novel or surprising because it happens so often. Avoid using it for rare or exceptional events. It is often used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as news reports, workplace discussions, or social commentary.
Avoid Confusion
Do not confuse "司空见惯" with words that mean "habit" or "custom" alone. This idiom specifically highlights the frequency and commonness of an event or situation, not just a personal habit.
Meaning and Usage
"司空见惯" is a Chinese idiom used to describe something that is very common or frequently seen, to the point that it no longer surprises or attracts attention. It literally means "seen often by the Minister of Works," referring to something so usual that even an official responsible for public works would be accustomed to it.
Contexts
This phrase is often used to talk about everyday occurrences, common mistakes, or familiar situations in work, life, or society. It carries a neutral to slightly negative tone, implying that the event or phenomenon is so frequent it may cause indifference or annoyance.
Common Collocations
Usage Tips
Use "司空见惯" when you want to emphasize that something is no longer novel or surprising because it happens so often. Avoid using it for rare or exceptional events. It is often used in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as news reports, workplace discussions, or social commentary.
Avoid Confusion
Do not confuse "司空见惯" with words that mean "habit" or "custom" alone. This idiom specifically highlights the frequency and commonness of an event or situation, not just a personal habit.