伶 (líng) - actor, performer & clever, intelligent
伶 · líng
actor, performer;
clever, intelligent;
lonely, solitary;
used in historical terms for officials and in modern terms for performers.
actor, performerclever, intelligentlonely, solitary
Usage highlights
Clever and sharpLonely and helplessActor/performerFemale performerFamous performerClever mouth
Usage & contexts
Examples
- She is a clever and witty child (聪明伶俐).
- He works as an actor (伶人).
- The lonely traveler walked alone (孤苦伶仃).
- In ancient times, there were court musicians (乐伶).
Collocations
- Clever and sharp(伶俐)
- Lonely and helpless(伶仃)
- Actor/performer(伶人)
- Female performer(女伶)
- Famous performer(名伶)
- Clever mouth(伶牙俐齿)
Idioms
- Clever and sharp-witted(聪明伶俐)
- Lonely and helpless(孤苦伶仃)
- Sharp tongue and quick words(伶牙俐齿)
- Poor and lonely(贫贱伶仃)
Cultural background
FAQ- Originally referred to musicians and performers in ancient Chinese courts, especially during the Tang and Song dynasties.
- In modern usage, often describes intelligence and quick-wittedness in children.
- Also carries connotations of loneliness and solitude in certain contexts.