默默无闻

mòmò-wúwén

obscure and unknown (idiom); an outsider without any reputation

HSK 7

한자 분해

Meaning and Usage

"默默无闻" describes someone or something that exists quietly without attracting attention or fame. It often implies humility or lack of recognition despite effort or value.

Common Contexts

This phrase is frequently used to describe people who work hard behind the scenes or have talents that are not widely known. It can carry a positive tone of modesty or a neutral tone of obscurity.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuance and Tips

Using 默默无闻 highlights the contrast between effort and recognition. It is different from words meaning "famous" or "well-known." Avoid confusing it with 默默 (silently) alone, as 默默无闻 emphasizes the lack of public awareness or fame.

예문

他虽然默默无闻,但工作非常努力。

Tā suīrán mòmò-wúwén, dàn gōngzuò fēicháng nǔlì.

Although he is unknown and silent, he works very hard.

这位作家默默无闻,却写出了许多优秀的作品。

Zhè wèi zuòjiā mòmò-wúwén, què xiě chūle xǔduō yōuxiù de zuòpǐn.

This writer is obscure but has written many excellent works.

他选择默默无闻地帮助别人,不求回报。

Tā xuǎnzé mòmò-wúwén de bāngzhù biérén, bù qiú huíbào.

He chooses to help others quietly without seeking recognition.