Definition
八面玲珑 is a four-character idiom (chengyu) that literally means 'eight sides exquisitely connected' — like a building with openings on all sides, letting light and air flow through. It describes someone who is socially adept, able to handle people from all sides, often implying a certain slickness or diplomacy. The tone can be neutral or mildly critical, depending on context: it praises social skill but can hint at insincerity.
f.e.
smooth and slick in dealing with peoplesocially adept and diplomatic
Examples
- 八面玲珑，。Zhège jīnglǐ bā miàn líng lóng, duì shéi dōu hěn kèqi.This manager is very smooth and treats everyone politely.
- 八面玲珑，。Tā zuò shì bā miàn líng lóng, zài shèjiāo quān lǐ hěn shòu huānyíng.He handles things diplomatically and is very popular in social circles.
- 八面玲珑，。Tā suīrán bā miàn líng lóng, dàn rénmen zǒng juéde tā búgòu zhēnchéng.Although she is socially slick, people always feel she isn't sincere enough.
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