Chinese idiom 行云流水
February 14, 2025•75 words
The Chinese idiom 行云流水 (xíng yún liú shuǐ) literally means “floating clouds and flowing water.” It describes something that moves smoothly, naturally, and effortlessly.
It is often used to praise:
• Writing or calligraphy that is fluid and graceful.
• Music that flows harmoniously.
• Actions or movements that are smooth and unforced, such as in martial arts or dance.
A good English equivalent would be “effortless flow” or “graceful and natural like flowing water.”