Definition
This is a four-character idiom (成语) from a story in the Shiji about King Zhuang of Chu, who 'was not heard for three years, but then with one call startled everyone'. It describes someone who achieves sudden, dramatic success after a period of obscurity — like debuting with a hit or making a breakthrough that surprises everyone. Use it informally but not in casual chat; it's a literary set phrase that carries a positive, admiring tone.
f.e.
to become famous overnightto make a spectacular debutto achieve instant fame
Examples
- 一鸣惊人，。Zhè wèi niánqīng yǎnyuán píngjiè yí bù diànyǐng yī míng jīng rén, lìkè chéng le quánguó míngrén.This young actor became famous overnight with one movie and immediately became a national celebrity.
- ，一鸣惊人，。Shéi yě méi xiǎngdào, tā chūcì cānjiā guójì bǐsài jiù yī míng jīng rén, ná le jīnpái.No one expected that he would make a stunning debut at his first international competition and win a gold medal.
- 一鸣惊人，。Zhè jiā gōngsī tuīchū xīn chǎnpǐn hòu yī míng jīng rén, dìngdān cóng shìjiè gèdì yǒng lái.After launching its new product, the company achieved instant fame, with orders pouring in from all over the world.
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