Definition
伶牙俐齿 is a four-character idiom that literally means 'clever teeth and sharp mouth' but describes someone who is quick-witted and fluent in speech — they talk persuasively and can argue or charm easily. It usually carries a positive or admiring tone, but can sometimes imply someone is glib or too slick depending on context.
idiom
clever and eloquenthaving the gift of the gabsharp-tongued in a good way
Examples
- 伶牙俐齿，。Tā zhēnshi gè líng yá lì chǐ de nǚhái, měi cì dá biàn dōu ràng lǎoshī wú huà kě shuō.She's really a sharp-tongued girl — every time she defends her thesis she leaves the teacher speechless.
- 伶牙俐齿，。Zuò xiāoshòu jiù děi líng yá lì chǐ, cáinéng shuōfú kèhù qiān hétong.To be in sales you need to be eloquent, so you can persuade clients to sign contracts.
- 伶牙俐齿，。Suīrán wǒ suàn bù shàng líng yá lì chǐ, dàn wǒ yě néng bǎ dàolǐ jiǎng qīngchu.Although I'm not particularly eloquent, I can still explain the reasoning clearly.
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