疵璺（cī lì）

Pronunciation: cī lì

Basic Meaning: blemish or flaw on a precious gem

Detailed Explanation: 疵璺 refers to a small flaw or imperfection on a precious gem, such as a diamond or jade. It is often used metaphorically to describe a flaw or defect in a person's character or behavior.

Usage Scenarios: This idiom is commonly used in formal or literary contexts to criticize someone's character or behavior for having flaws or imperfections.

Story Origin: The origin of this idiom can be traced back to a well-known ancient Chinese story. In the story, a man named Zhuangzi was asked by a friend why he didn't polish his jade. Zhuangzi replied, "The jade has flaws, but I love it because of its flaws. The flaws make it unique and beautiful." This story illustrates the idea that even something with imperfections can still be valuable and cherished.

Structure of the Idiom: 疵璺 is a compound word formed by combining two individual characters, 疵 (cī) meaning "blemish" and 璺 (lì) meaning "flaw on a gem".

Example Sentences:

1. 他的品行有疵璺，不夠值得信賴。

Translation: His character has flaws and is not trustworthy enough.

2. 這幅畫雖然有疵璺，但依然被認為是一件珍品。

Translation: Although this painting has flaws, it is still considered a valuable piece.

Memory Techniques: To remember the meaning of 疵璺, you can associate the character 疵 (cī) with "blemish" and the character 璺 (lì) with "flaw on a gem". Visualize a precious gem with a small flaw or imperfection on it.

Extended Learning: To further expand your knowledge about 疵璺, you can learn more about the history and cultural significance of jade in Chinese culture. Additionally, you can explore other idioms and expressions related to flaws or imperfections in character or behavior.

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

1. Children (7-12 years old): 我的作業有些疵璺，但老師還是給了我好成績。

Translation: My homework has some flaws, but the teacher still gave me a good grade.

2. Teenagers (13-18 years old): 他的外表看起來完美無瑕，但內心卻有疵璺。

Translation: He looks perfect on the outside, but he has flaws on the inside.

3. Adults (19+ years old): 這個政策有些疵璺，需要進一步完善。

Translation: This policy has some flaws and needs further improvement.