头头是道

• Pinyin: tóu tóu shì dào
• Hanzi breakdown: 头头 = every aspect; 是 = is; 道 = way, reason — every point makes sense

Meaning

To speak logically and convincingly; well-organized in argument; systematic.

Describes speech or writing that is well-structured, logical, and persuasive. Often used to compliment someone's eloquence or, sarcastically, to imply that someone talks a good game but may not deliver.

Examples

1. 他把这个理论分析得头头是道，听众都被说服了。 He analyzed this theory so logically that the audience was completely convinced.
2. 你说起别人的事头头是道，轮到自己怎么就糊涂了？ You talk about other people's affairs so logically — how come you're so confused when it's about yourself?
3. 她对投资讲得头头是道，但自己的钱全赔光了。 She talks about investing so convincingly, but she lost all her own money.

Usage Guide

Context: speaking, argumentation, analysis

Tone: complimentary or ironic

Do Say

• 说得头头是道。(Speaking very logically.)
• 分析得头头是道。(Analyzing systematically.)

Don't Say

• 用'头头是道'形容简单陈述 (头头是道 implies elaborate, logical discourse — simple statements don't qualify)

Origin & History

Originally from Buddhist terminology meaning every aspect is the Way (道). Now means every point makes sense.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal