黄龙
huáng lóng
Yellow dragon · trad. 黃龍
黄龙 (Huánglóng) literally means "yellow dragon." In Chinese mythology, the Yellow Dragon is a revered divine beast, often associated with the emperor, the center of the universe, and the element earth. It is also the name of a famous UNESCO World Heritage site in Sichuan, China.
When to use it
Neutral. This term is primarily used in mythological, historical, or geographical contexts. It carries significant cultural weight due to its association with imperial power and auspiciousness.
How to pronounce it
Sounds roughly like “HWANG-long.” Both syllables typically have a rising tone. The 'H' is a soft aspirate, similar to the 'h' in 'house'.
Other ways to say it
- 龙lóngdragon (general term)
- 金龙jīn lónggolden dragon (often shares similar symbolism)
- 黄帝huáng dìYellow Emperor (a key mythological figure associated with the Yellow Dragon)
Examples
黄龙是中国古代神话中的重要神兽。
huáng lóng shì zhōng guó gǔ dài shén huà zhōng de zhòng yào shén shòu 。
The Yellow Dragon is an important mythical beast in ancient Chinese mythology.
四川的黄龙风景区以其彩池闻名。
sì chuān de huáng lóng fēng jǐng qū yǐ qí cǎi chí wén míng 。
Sichuan's Huanglong Scenic Area is famous for its colorful pools.
传说黄龙帮助大禹治水。
chuán shuō huáng lóng bāng zhù dà yǔ zhì shuǐ 。
Legend has it that the Yellow Dragon helped Yu the Great control the floods.
Pro tip: In Chinese culture, yellow is a color of imperial power and prosperity, and dragons are symbols of strength and good fortune. The Yellow Dragon, therefore, is an exceptionally auspicious and powerful symbol.
Related phrases
龙 · Dragon饺子 · Dumpling金龙 · Gold dragon
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