青出于蓝而胜于蓝
Blue comes from the indigo plant but is bluer than the plant itself.
The proverb indicates that younger generations can outdo older ones.

 

青山不老，绿水长存
As sure as the hills stay green and the rivers always run.
The proverb metaphorically means that beautiful things will exist forever.

 

红牛黑牛，能拉犁的都是好牛
Any ox that can pull the plough is a good ox, whether it’s red or black.
The proverb indicates that any measure is acceptable as long as it works.

 

黑云压城城欲摧
Dark clouds bearing down on the city threaten to crush it.
The proverb is often used as a metaphor for a tense situation produced by wicked forces.

 

白壁求善价，明珠难暗投
White jade fetches a good price, and bright pearls shine brighter in darkness.
The proverb suggests that so long as one has talent, he will reach an important position.

 

白圭玷可灭，黄金诺不轻
A flaw in white jade can be effaced, but the promise made is as precious as gold.
The proverb emphasizes that one should keep his words.

 

白头如亲，倾盖如故
White heads as though newly met; two canopied chariots tipping toward each other as though old friends.
The proverb indicates that one may feel like a stranger to some people in spite of their lifelong acquaintance, but like an old friend with others upon their first meeting.

 

黄狸黑狸，得鼠者雄
It doesn’t matter if a wild cat is yellow or black; as long as it can catch mice, it is a good wild cat.
The proverb means that whoever can achieve the desired result is the best to achieve it.