yǐn引citejīng经classicsjù据rely ondiǎn典allusions
To quote classics and cite authority; to support an argument with classical references.
Literal meaning
cite (引) — classics (经) — rely on (据) — allusions (典)
Origin
Describes the practice of supporting one's arguments or writing with quotations from classical texts and historical sources.
Examples
Tā de yǎnjiǎng yǐnjīng-jùdiǎn, xiǎnshì chū shēnhòu de wénhuà dǐyùn.他的演讲引经据典，显示出深厚的文化底蕴。
His speech quoted classics and cited authority, showing a deep cultural foundation.
Zhè piān wénzhāng yǐnjīng-jùdiǎn, lùnzhèngle zhōngguó chuántǒng wénhuà de zhòngyàoxìng.这篇文章引经据典，论证了中国传统文化的重要性。
This article quoted classics and cited authority to demonstrate the importance of traditional Chinese culture.
Usage & nuances
Often used to describe formal or academic writing and speech.
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