Definition
鬼斧神工 is a four-character idiom (chengyu) that describes workmanship so extraordinary it seems to have been created by supernatural forces — literally 'ghost axe, divine work'. You use it to praise architecture, art, or craftsmanship that is breathtakingly skillful and almost otherworldly. It is a fixed expression and cannot be broken apart.
f.e.
(chengyu) uncanny workmanshipsuperlative craftsmanship that appears supernatural
Examples
- 鬼斧神工,。Zhè zuò qiáo de shèjì zhēn shì guǐ fǔ shén gōng, lìng rén jīngtàn.The design of this bridge is truly uncanny workmanship, leaving people in awe.
- 鬼斧神工。Gùgōng de jiànzhù kān chēng guǐ fǔ shén gōng.The architecture of the Forbidden City can be called supernatural craftsmanship.
- 鬼斧神工。Tā de diāokè zuòpǐn dádào le guǐ fǔ shén gōng de jìngjiè.His carving works have reached the realm of supernatural craftsmanship.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.