红楼梦
Hónglóumèng
Dream of the red chamber · trad. 紅樓夢
《红楼梦》 (Hónglóumèng) is one of China's Four Great Classical Novels, a literary masterpiece written in the 18th century by Cao Xueqin. It offers a detailed and vivid portrayal of aristocratic life, complex characters, and the decline of a powerful family during the Qing Dynasty.
What does 红楼梦 (Hónglóumèng) mean?
红楼梦 (Hónglóumèng) means “dream of the red chamber” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “red chamber dream.”
When to use it
As the title of a classic novel, its usage is neutral and formal. It's universally recognized and respected in Chinese culture. When discussing it, people often refer to it simply as "红楼梦".
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "Hong-LOW-mung." The first two syllables, 红 (hóng) and 楼 (lóu), are both rising tones. The last syllable, 梦 (mèng), is a falling tone.
Other ways to say it
- 石头记ShítoujìThe Story of the Stone (alternative title)
- 红楼hónglóuRed Chamber (common shorthand, often used in related contexts like "Red Chamber studies")
- 中国四大名著Zhōngguó sìdà míngzhùChina's Four Great Classical Novels (the category it belongs to)
Examples
《红楼梦》是中国文学的巅峰之作。
Hónglóumèng shì Zhōngguó wénxué de diānfēng zhī zuò.
"Dream of the Red Chamber" is a pinnacle work of Chinese literature.
很多人喜欢研究《红楼梦》中的人物关系。
hěnduō rén xǐhuān yánjiū Hónglóumèng zhōng de rénwù guānxì.
Many people enjoy studying the character relationships in "Dream of the Red Chamber."
你有没有看过《红楼梦》的电视剧？
nǐ yǒu méiyǒu kànguo Hónglóumèng de diànshìjù?
Have you watched the TV series adaptation of "Dream of the Red Chamber"?
Pro tip: The novel is also widely known by its earlier title, 《石头记》 (Shítóu Jì), or "The Story of the Stone." Both titles are used, but 《红楼梦》 is more common today.
Related phrases
中国梦 · China dream书 · Book中国菜 · China food
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