眉开眼笑

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The idiom 眉开眼笑 (méikāi-yǎnxiào) literally means "eyebrows open and eyes smile," describing a face full of joy and happiness. It is used to vividly express someone's delighted and radiant expression, often after receiving good news or experiencing happiness.

Common Contexts

This phrase is frequently used in everyday conversation and writing to depict genuine happiness or satisfaction. It often appears when describing reactions to positive events such as gifts, achievements, or pleasant surprises.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuances

Using 眉开眼笑 implies a very vivid and visible happiness, more expressive than just smiling. It often conveys a warm, sincere joy rather than a polite or restrained smile.

Common Confusions

Do not confuse 眉开眼笑 with simple verbs like (to smile/laugh). 眉开眼笑 emphasizes the whole facial expression and the emotional state behind it, making it more descriptive and expressive.

Example Sentences

Upon hearing the good news, he immediately beamed with joy.

After receiving the gifts, all the children smiled brightly and were very

The boss, upon hearing about the improved performance, announced the bonus