可歌可泣

• Pinyin: kě gē kě qì
• Hanzi breakdown: 可 = worthy; 歌 = song; 泣 = weep

Meaning

Heroic and moving; worthy of being sung and wept over. Describes deeds so noble and touching that they deserve both praise and tears.

A formal expression used to describe extraordinarily moving stories of sacrifice, heroism, or dedication. Often applied to historical figures, martyrs, or people who made great sacrifices. Carries a solemn, commemorative tone.

Examples

1. 抗战时期涌现出许多可歌可泣的英雄事迹。 Many heroic and moving stories of bravery emerged during the War of Resistance.
2. 那些为科研事业默默奉献的人们，他们的故事可歌可泣。 Those who silently devoted themselves to scientific research — their stories are truly heroic and moving.
3. 医护人员在疫情中的表现可歌可泣，令人敬佩。 The performance of medical workers during the pandemic was heroic and moving, truly admirable.

Usage Guide

Context: commemoration, historical narrative, eulogy

Tone: solemn

Do Say

• 他们的牺牲精神可歌可泣。(Their spirit of sacrifice is heroic and moving.)
• 这是一段可歌可泣的历史。(This is a heroic and moving piece of history.)

Don't Say

• 他帮我搬家，真是可歌可泣。(Don't use for ordinary favors — this phrase is reserved for heroic sacrifice and great deeds)

Origin & History

Classical idiom combining 可歌 (worthy of song/praise) + 可泣 (worthy of tears). Originates from literary traditions praising heroic deeds.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated