Definition
促膝谈心 is a four-character set phrase (成语) that literally means 'to sit knee-to-knee and talk from the heart'. It describes a close, intimate conversation between two people—usually close friends or family—where you speak openly and sincerely, often late into the night. The phrase emphasizes both physical closeness (sitting side by side, knees touching) and emotional candor. Use it to imply a deep, trusting relationship where both parties feel safe to share their true feelings.
f.e.
to have a heart-to-heart talk while sitting close together (typically between close friends)
Examples
- 促膝谈心，。Wǒmen jīngcháng zài shēnyè cù xī tán xīn, liáo dào wàng le shíjiān.We often have intimate heart-to-heart talks late into the night, chatting until we lose track of time.
- ，促膝谈心，。Nà tiān wǎnshang, liǎng gè rén cù xī tán xīn, cóng xiǎoshíhou liáo dào xiànzài.That evening, the two of them sat knee to knee talking from the heart, chatting about everything from childhood to the present.
- ，促膝谈心。Duō nián de hǎo péngyou yí jiànmiàn, jiù huì zhǎo gè ānjìng de dìfang cù xī tán xīn.Old friends who haven't seen each other for years always find a quiet spot to have a sincere, private talk.
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