← IDIOMS · FAMILY
HSK 7-9
cùninchstepnotleave
Not to leave for even an inch; to stay very close.

Literal meaning

inch (寸) — step (步) — not (不) — leave (离)

Origin

A classical four-character phrase.

Examples

shēngbìngdeshíhoudezicùndezhào
When he was sick, his wife stayed by his side and took care of him.
Háizimencùndegēnzhemende
The children followed their mother closely.

Usage & nuances

Describes being very close to someone or something, often due to affection or protectiveness.

Learn idioms by speaking them

Idioms are most useful when they land in a real conversation. Practice them out loud in Kango — get instant feedback on tone and timing.

Download Kango on iOS