| |
 |
Idiom
|
Down-to-earth 讲究实际的
A down-to-earth person is honest, realistic and easy to deal with. He or she is just the opposite of someone who acts important or proud.
Down-to-earth persons may be important members of society, of course. But they do not let their importance "go to their heads" (被成功、名利、赞扬等冲昏头脑). They do not consider themselves to be better persons than others of less importance and accept other people as equals.
Someone who is filled with his own importance and pride, often without cause, is said to have "his nose in the air" (鼻子朝天，目中无人). There is no way a person with his nose in the air can be down-to-earth.
Americans use another expression that means almost the same as "down-to-earth". The expression is "both feet on the ground" (注重实际，脚踏实地). Someone with both feet on the ground is a person with a good understanding of reality. He has what is called "common sense". He may have dreams, but he does not allow them to block his knowledge of what is real.
The opposite kind of person is one who has his "head in the clouds" (心比天高). A man with his head in the clouds is a dreamer whose mind is not in the real world.
Sometimes, such a dreamer can be brought back to earth. Sharp words from teacher can usually bring a day-dreaming (做白日梦) student down-to-earth.
Usually, the person who is down-to-earth is very likely to have both feet on the ground. He always acts honestly and openly toward others.
|
|
|
|
