calibre2001 Posted September 6, 2008 at 09:22 AM Report Share Posted September 6, 2008 at 09:22 AM My dictionary says 知音 is 'a person who is deeply appreciative of someone's abilities' whereas online dictionaries tend to say friend. Hope someone can clear up on the differences. Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Horse Posted September 6, 2008 at 10:32 AM Report Share Posted September 6, 2008 at 10:32 AM It comes from the story of 伯牙and 钟子期 doesn't it. It was only really 钟子期 who could understand the meaning of what 伯牙played, so when 钟子期 died 伯牙 smashed up his zither. I would say that the meaning is closer to 'soulmate' or very close friend, definitely not just an average mate Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
calibre2001 Posted September 6, 2008 at 11:31 AM Author Report Share Posted September 6, 2008 at 11:31 AM Closer than 兄弟？ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
skylee Posted September 6, 2008 at 01:46 PM Report Share Posted September 6, 2008 at 01:46 PM 知音 is someone who knows about your heart. 兄弟 is someone who is as close to you as you siblings. You decide which is closer. 朋友 means "friend". Regarding 兄弟, you may also wish to know we have this saying, "兄弟如手足，夫妻如衣服". Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vampire Posted September 6, 2008 at 06:52 PM Report Share Posted September 6, 2008 at 06:52 PM 知音 generally means a person who is deeply appreciative of someone's talent and can truly understand what someone wants to express, 知己 is more accurate for very very good friend, closer than 兄弟 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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