Game Guide

Idiom Crossword Puzzle Guide, Rules, and Tips

Idiom Crossword is a crossword built from Chinese four-character idioms (chengyu). Fill each empty cell with the right character so that every idiom across and down is complete. It is a fun way for Chinese learners and native speakers alike to practice idioms and their meanings.

How to Play

  • Each cell holds one Chinese character.
  • Every row or column of four linked cells forms a complete idiom.
  • Correct characters turn green as you enter them.
  • Complete every idiom in the grid to earn the final score. Choose Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced difficulty.

Strategy and Tips

  • Start with the idioms you recognize instantly; their characters give you letters for the crossing idioms.
  • Look at shared characters where two idioms cross; they narrow the choices a lot.
  • Read the meaning hint carefully: many idioms are built around a story or a comparison.
  • Begin at Beginner, which uses common idioms, before trying classical ones on Advanced.

Controls

KeyboardMouseTouch

Click an empty cell and type using your Chinese input method. Click Hint to reveal an idiom’s meaning when you are stuck.

Background

Chengyu are fixed expressions, usually four characters long, many of which come from classical literature and historical stories. There are thousands in use, and knowing them well is a mark of fluency in Chinese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Chinese keyboard?

You need a Chinese input method, such as pinyin, installed on your device to type the characters.

What do the difficulty levels mean?

Beginner uses common four-character idioms, Intermediate adds less common ones, and Advanced uses classical idioms.

Is this suitable for Chinese learners?

Yes. The meaning hints make it a good way to learn new idioms in context.

What happens if I enter a wrong character?

Only correct characters turn green, so a character that stays uncolored is a signal to rethink that idiom. You can change any cell until the whole grid is complete.