Definition
能言善辩 is a four-character idiom meaning 'eloquent and articulate in speech'. It literally breaks down as 能 (able to) 言 (speak) 善 (good at) 辩 (debate/argue), and describes someone who is persuasive and quick-tongued, often used as a compliment for skilled speakers, debaters, or negotiators. It can function as a predicate or attribute.
f.e.
eloquentarticulatepersuasive in speech
Examples
- 能言善辩,。Zhè wèi lǜshī néng yán shàn biàn, zài fǎtíng shàng zǒngshì néng shuōfú duìfāng.This lawyer is eloquent and always manages to persuade the other side in court.
- 能言善辩,。Tā néng yán shàn biàn, zài biànlùn sài zhōng lǚcì huòshèng.He is so articulate that he repeatedly wins debate competitions.
- ,能言善辩。Zuòwéi yì míng wàijiāoguān, néng yán shàn biàn shì fēicháng zhòngyào de sùzhì.As a diplomat, being eloquent is a very important quality.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.