Family
Deep
滴水之恩，当涌泉相报
dī shuǐ zhī ēn, dāng yǒng quán xiāng bào
Natural meaning
A drop of kindness deserves a spring of gratitude.
Literal translation
The kindness of a drop of water should be repaid with a gushing spring.
What it means
This saying teaches that even the smallest favor should be repaid with great gratitude and generosity. It emphasizes the importance of loyalty and reciprocity in Chinese social relationships.
Cultural context
In Chinese culture, gratitude (感恩) is a core virtue, and failing to repay a kindness is seen as a serious moral failing. This phrase is often taught to children and cited in family discussions.
When Chinese people say this
Someone might say this when reminding a family member to visit and care for an elderly relative who helped them years ago, stressing that they owe a deep debt of gratitude.
Why Chinese people say this
This expresses the deep cultural value of reciprocity — that even small favors must be repaid with great gratitude. It signals that you are a person of honor who remembers kindness, which strengthens social bonds. It is often said when someone has helped you, to show that you will not forget it.
💬 Real-life example
A:Auntie Chen helped me with rent once when I was struggling. I should visit her more.
B:Definitely. She's old now and could use company.
C:That's the spirit. 滴水之恩，当涌泉相报. We must repay kindness generously.
⚠️ Don't take it literally
It's not about water; it's a metaphor for repaying small kindnesses with great generosity.
📖 Story example
Years ago, a stranger gave Mei directions when she was lost in a new city. Now, she volunteers as a tour guide, believing in '滴水之恩，当涌泉相报' to pass on the goodwill.
❓ Frequently asked questions
What does 滴水之恩，当涌泉相报 mean in English?
It means 'The kindness of a drop of water should be repaid with a gushing spring,' teaching that even minor favors deserve abundant gratitude.
When do Chinese people say 滴水之恩，当涌泉相报?
The saying reflects traditional emphasis on reciprocity, often used to remind people to honor debts of gratitude in relationships.
Is 滴水之恩，当涌泉相报 still used today?
Yes, it's commonly invoked in family and social contexts to encourage loyalty and thankfulness.
What is the English equivalent of 滴水之恩，当涌泉相报?
Similar to 'One good turn deserves another' but with a stronger emphasis on magnanimous repayment.
💕 Related Chinese sayings