默默无闻
mò mò wú wén
Unknown and unacclaimed · trad. 默默無聞
Describes someone or something that remains obscure, unnoticed, or without public recognition. It refers to a state of being unknown or having no reputation, often despite having talent or working diligently.
What does 默默无闻 (mò mò wú wén) mean?
默默无闻 (mò mò wú wén) means "unknown and unacclaimed" in English. Word for word, it breaks down as "silently without being known."
Character by character
- 默 mò silent
- 默 mò silent
- 无 wú without
- 闻 wén be known
When to use it
Commonly used to describe individuals who work behind the scenes, artists before their breakthrough, or people who live ordinary lives without seeking fame. It can carry a slightly sympathetic or admiring tone for those who contribute without recognition.
Example
十年间他一直默默无闻，后来一部作品使他一鸣惊人。
Shíniánjiān tā yìzhí mò mò wú wén, hòulái yíbù zuòpǐn shǐ tā yìmíngjīngrén.
For ten years, he remained unknown, but then one work made him an overnight sensation.
Pro tip: Often implies a period of obscurity that might eventually lead to recognition, rather than a permanent state of being unknown.
Related idioms
名正言顺 · Proper justification莫名其妙 · Inexplicable strange behavior能说会道 · Eloquent speaking ability
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