潛璧（qián bì）

Pronunciation: qián bì

Basic Meaning: hidden jade

Detailed Explanation: The term "潛璧" comes from a story in ancient China. According to the legend, during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC), there was a master stonemason who was renowned for his skill in carving jade. One day, a prince came to visit him and asked if he could see his best work. The master stonemason brought out a piece of jade that was so exquisite and beautiful that it looked like a precious gem. However, instead of showing it to the prince, he quickly hid it away. When the prince asked why he did not show him the jade, the master stonemason replied, "A hidden jade is more precious than one that is openly displayed."

Usage Scenarios: This idiom is often used to describe something precious or valuable that is hidden or not easily seen or appreciated by others.

Story Origin: The story of the master stonemason and the hidden jade has been passed down through generations in China, highlighting the importance of preserving and cherishing valuable things.

Structure of the Idiom: The idiom consists of two characters: "潛" means "hidden" or "concealed," and "璧" refers to a precious jade stone.

Example Sentences:

1. 他的才華就像一塊潛璧，需要時間和耐心才能被發現。 (His talent is like a hidden jade, it takes time and patience to be discovered.)

2. 這幅畫的價值就像一塊潛璧，只有懂行的人才能欣賞。 (The value of this painting is like a hidden jade, only those who understand can appreciate it.)

Memory Techniques: To remember the meaning of "潛璧," you can visualize a precious jade stone being hidden or concealed. You can also associate it with the idea that something valuable is not always apparent at first glance.

Extended Learning: To further explore the concept of hidden value, you can research other idioms or stories in Chinese culture that convey similar meanings, such as "明珠暗投" (hidden gem) or "錦繡前程" (bright future).

Example Sentences by Different Age Groups:

1. Children: 我的秘密藏在書包里，就像一塊潛璧一樣。 (My secret is hidden in my backpack, just like a hidden jade.)

2. Teenagers: 他的音樂天賦就像一塊潛璧，只有在舞臺上才能展現出來。 (His musical talent is like a hidden jade, it can only be shown on stage.)

3. Adults: 這本書是一本潛璧，只有真正讀過的人才會明白它的價值。 (This book is a hidden jade, only those who have truly read it will understand its value.)