Definition
刀光剑影 is a four-character idiom (chengyu) that paints a vivid picture of a fierce battle—literally 'the light of knives and the shadows of swords'. In modern usage it is often extended to describe any intense, high-stakes conflict, whether in business, politics, or personal rivalry. It functions as a set phrase, typically used in literary or figurative contexts.
idiom
glint and flash of cold steelheated combat or rivalry
Examples
- 刀光剑影，。Zhànchǎng shàng dāo guāng jiàn yǐng, shìbīng men háo bú wèijù.On the battlefield, with glinting swords and flashing shadows, the soldiers were fearless.
- ，刀光剑影。Shāngchǎng rú zhànchǎng, chùchù dōu shì dāo guāng jiàn yǐng.The business world is like a battlefield; there are glints and flashes everywhere.
- 刀光剑影。Zhè bù diànyǐng chōngmǎn le dāo guāng jiàn yǐng de dǎdòu chǎngmiàn.This movie is full of sword-fighting scenes with glints and shadows.
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