Relationships
Easy
一回生，二回熟
Yī huí shēng, èr huí shú
Natural meaning
Strangers at first, friends by the second time.
Literal translation
First time unfamiliar, second time familiar.
What it means
The first encounter is awkward, but with repeated contact, people become comfortable and familiar. It encourages patience in building relationships.
Cultural context
This saying is commonly used in social settings to ease initial awkwardness, reflecting the Chinese emphasis on long-term relationship building.
When Chinese people say this
Someone might say this when meeting a new colleague or neighbor, to break the ice and set expectations for future interactions.
Why Chinese people say this
It normalizes initial discomfort and signals that relationships take time to develop. It also reassures both parties that future meetings will be smoother, fostering social harmony.
💬 Real-life example
A:I'm awkward around new people; this networking event is stressing me out.
B:一回生，二回熟. It'll feel more natural next time you meet them.
C:True, we all start as strangers before becoming friends.
Tone
🟢 Reassuring · Friendly
⚠️ Don't take it literally
It's not about literal birth and familiarity; it's a metaphor for the natural progression from strangers to acquaintances.
📖 Story example
On her first day at a new job, Lin felt shy during team introductions. A colleague patted her shoulder and said, '一回生，二回熟.' By the following week, she was chatting easily, the initial awkwardness replaced by camaraderie.
❓ Frequently asked questions
What does 一回生，二回熟 mean in English?
It translates to 'Strangers at first, friends by the second time,' indicating that relationships improve with repeated contact.
When is this saying typically used?
The saying reflects social etiquette, often said when introducing people or in new social situations to promote comfort and encourage future interactions.
Is 一回生，二回熟 still used in daily life?
Yes, it's very common in both personal and professional settings to break the ice and build rapport over time.
What is the English equivalent of 一回生，二回熟?
Similar expressions include 'First impressions are not lasting' or 'Familiarity breeds comfort,' though they emphasize different aspects of relationship building.
💕 Related Chinese sayings