The Complete Book of Couplets

1. Couplets, also known as pillar couplets, paired verses, or door couplets, are a literary form unique to the Chinese language. They consist of two lines—an upper and a lower line—that must have an equal number of characters, symmetrical structure, and balanced tone patterns, while expressing a specific idea or artistic conception.

2. This tool contains a vast collection of couplet data; simply enter a keyword to search.

3. Characteristics of Couplets:

(1) Equal number of characters: The upper and lower couplets must have the same number of characters.

(2) Precise Antithesis: The words and structures of the upper and lower couplets must correspond, with the same part of speech, forming antithesis.

(3) Harmonious tone pattern: The final character of the upper couplet is typically a rising tone, while the final character of the lower couplet is a level tone, conforming to the phonetic rules of the Chinese language.

(4) Concise yet profound: Conveys deep meaning or emotion using concise language.

(5) Diverse Forms: Depending on their purpose, couplets can be categorized into Spring Festival couplets, wedding couplets, birthday couplets, and memorial couplets, among others.