经久不息

• Pinyin: jīng jiǔ bù xī
• Hanzi breakdown: 经 = to pass through, lasting; 久 = long time; 不 = not; 息 = to rest, cease

Meaning

Prolonged and unceasing; lasting for a long time. Often used for applause that continues without stopping.

A four-character idiom most commonly used to describe applause (掌声) that lasts for an extended period, indicating strong approval or enthusiasm. Can also describe other sustained sounds or phenomena. Carries a positive, celebratory connotation.

Examples

1. 演出结束后，全场响起了经久不息的掌声。 After the performance ended, prolonged applause erupted throughout the venue.
2. 这位歌手的告别演唱会引发了歌迷们经久不息的欢呼。 This singer's farewell concert triggered unceasing cheers from the fans.
3. 当冠军登上领奖台时，观众席上经久不息的掌声让他热泪盈眶。 When the champion stepped onto the podium, the prolonged applause from the audience brought tears to his eyes.

Usage Guide

Context: performances, ceremonies, celebrations

Tone: celebratory

Do Say

• 掌声经久不息。(The applause was prolonged and unceasing.)
• 欢呼声经久不息。(The cheers went on and on.)

Don't Say

• 雨经久不息 (Don't use 经久不息 for negative continuous phenomena like rain — it has a positive connotation; use 连绵不断 instead)

Origin & History

Composed of 经久 (for a long time) + 不息 (without stopping). Together meaning continuing for a long time without ceasing.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Formal/literary contexts