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远亲不如近邻

yuǎn qīn bù rú jìn lín
A close neighbor is better than a distant relative.

Distant relatives are not as good as nearby neighbors.

In times of need, someone who lives nearby and can help imme...

In times of need, someone who lives nearby and can help immediately is more valuable than a relative who lives far away. It highlights the practical importance of good neighborly relations.

Historically, Chinese communities were tight-knit, and neighbors often relied on each other for daily support and emergencies. This saying encourages building strong community bonds.

Someone might say this when they need a cup of sugar or urgent help, and their neighbor comes to the rescue while their family is miles away.

This saying reinforces the social value of harmony and mutual aid within one's immediate community. It reminds people to be kind and helpful to those around them, as they are the ones who will be there in a pinch.

#friendship #family #social-rules

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