Definition
心中有数 is a fixed four-character idiom (成语) meaning 'to have a clear understanding of the situation' or 'to know exactly how things stand'. Literally it translates to 'have numbers in the heart' — the 'numbers' (数) represent a clear, calculated grasp of facts. You use it when someone has done their homework, understands the variables, and is confident about what will happen or what to do. It often appears in plans, negotiations, or self-assessments.
f.e.
to have a clear picture of the situationto know what's what (so you can act confidently)
Examples
- 心中有数，。Zhè cì kǎoshì wǒ xīn zhōng yǒu shù, kěndìng néng tōngguò.I have a clear sense of this exam — I'm sure I can pass.
- ，心中有数？Tánpàn zhīqián, nǐ yǐjīng xīn zhōng yǒu shù le ba?Before the negotiation, you've already got a good understanding, right?
- 心中有数，。Tā duì xiàngmù de fēngxiǎn xīn zhōng yǒu shù, suǒyǐ méiyǒu cōngmáng qiānzì.He had a clear picture of the project's risks, so he didn't sign hastily.
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