← IDIOMS · ANIMALS
HSK 7-9
cranestandchickenqúngroup
A crane standing among chickens; head and shoulders above others; standing out from the crowd.

Literal meaning

crane (鹤) — stand (立) — chicken (鸡) — group (群)

Origin

Describes someone who is outstanding in a group of ordinary people. A classical four-character phrase.

Examples

zàiqúnxuéshengzhōngqúnfēichángxiǎnyǎn
He stands out from the crowd of students and is very noticeable.
decáihuáshǐ使zàitóngshìzhōngqún
Her talent makes her stand out among her colleagues.

Usage & nuances

Used to describe someone who is exceptionally talented or skilled compared to others.

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