察言观色 observe words and expressions
Explanation
察言观色指观察对方的言谈和脸色来推测其心思。
Cha yan guan se means to observe the other person's words and facial expressions to infer their thoughts.
Origin Story
话说唐朝时期，一位名叫李白的诗人，应邀参加了一场盛大的宴会。席间，他细致地观察着每一位宾客的神态和言辞。一位官员频频举杯，笑容满面，但李白却注意到他眼神中的一丝焦虑。另一位官员则沉默寡言，但李白从他紧握的拳头和微微颤抖的手中，察觉到他内心的不安。宴会结束后，李白将自己观察到的情况告诉了朋友，并预测到其中一位官员将面临困境，而另一位则将受到重用。事实证明，李白的预测十分准确。
During the Tang Dynasty, a poet named Li Bai was invited to a grand banquet. During the banquet, he carefully observed the expressions and words of each guest. One official frequently raised his cup and smiled, but Li Bai noticed a hint of anxiety in his eyes. Another official was silent, but Li Bai sensed his inner unease from his clenched fists and slightly trembling hands. After the banquet, Li Bai told his friend about his observations and predicted that one official would face difficulties while the other would be promoted. His predictions proved to be accurate.
Usage
用于形容人善于观察和推测他人心思的能力。
Used to describe a person's ability to observe and infer the thoughts of others.
Examples
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他察言观色，知道老板心情不好，所以没有提加薪的事情。
ta cha yan guan se, zhidao laoban xinqing bu hao, suoyi meiyou ti jiaxin de shiqing.
He observed the expressions and knew that the boss was in a bad mood, so he didn't mention a raise.
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在重要的商务场合，察言观色尤其重要。
zai zhongyao de shangwu changhe, cha yan guan se youqi zhongyao.
In important business situations, reading the room is especially important.