红楼梦
hóng lóu mèng
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.
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shí tou jìThe Story of the Stone (alternative title)
- 红楼hóng lóuRed Chamber (common shorthand, often used in related contexts like "Red Chamber studies")
- 中国四大名著zhōng guó sì dà míng zhùChina's Four Great Classical Novels (the category it belongs to)
Examples
《红楼梦》是中国文学的巅峰之作。
《 hóng lóu mèng 》 shì zhōng guó wén xué de diān fēng 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。
hěn duō rén xǐ huan yán jiū 《 hóng lóu mèng 》 zhōng de rén wù guān xì 。
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 méi yǒu kàn guò 《 hóng lóu mèng 》 de diàn shì jù ？
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
和平 · Peace钱 · Money闭嘴 · Shut up
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