传奇

• Pinyin: chuán qí
• Hanzi breakdown: 传 = 亻 (person) + 专 (phonetic) = to transmit; 奇 = 大 (big) + 可 (phonetic) = strange, remarkable

Meaning

Legend; legendary; saga. A remarkable story or person that has achieved legendary status.

Can describe legendary tales, extraordinary life stories, or remarkable achievements. 传奇人物 (legendary figure), 传奇色彩 (legendary quality) are common phrases. Also a genre of classical Chinese drama.

Examples

1. 他从一个穷小子变成商业巨头，人生堪称传奇。 He went from a poor kid to a business tycoon; his life is truly legendary.
2. 这座古城有许多动人的传奇故事。 This ancient city has many moving legendary stories.
3. 她的演艺生涯充满传奇色彩。 Her entertainment career is full of legendary color.

Usage Guide

Context: storytelling, biography, entertainment

Tone: admiring

Do Say

• 乔布斯是科技界的传奇人物。(Steve Jobs is a legendary figure in the tech world.)
• 这部电影讲述了一个传奇将军的故事。(This film tells the story of a legendary general.)

Don't Say

• 今天的午餐很传奇 (传奇 is for truly remarkable, extraordinary things — not for everyday experiences)

Origin & History

Originally referred to a genre of classical Chinese short stories, then extended to mean remarkable stories or legends. 传 (transmit) + 奇 (strange, remarkable).

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal