绝无仅有

jué wú jǐn yǒu◆idiom

unparalleled

这种绝无仅有的艺术品在全世界只有一件。

This unparalleled artwork exists only one in the world.

◆ What It Really Means

Describes something so rare or unique that there is no other comparable example in existence. It conveys a sense of awe or reverence for the singularity of the subject.

¶ Literal Meaning

Absolutely none exist, and only one exists.

Literal Breakdown

绝to cut off; to eliminate completely+无none; not to have+仅only; merely+有to have; to exist

◇ Mental Image

Imagine a vast desert where only one rare flower blooms—its uniqueness stands out starkly against the emptiness.

◈ When to Use

A museum curator describing a newly discovered artifact that is the only surviving example of its kind in the world.

◉ Cultural Note

This idiom reflects the Chinese philosophical appreciation for singularity and exclusivity, often tied to Confucian ideals of rarity and value. It is frequently used in classical literature to praise extraordinary individuals or objects.

formal

Being the only one of its kind; having no equal or equivalent.

这是一场绝无仅有的音乐会，全球仅此一次。

This is a once-in-a-lifetime concert, with no repeats anywhere.

她的天赋在整个团队中绝无仅有。

Her talent is unparalleled in the entire team.

Often used to emphasize extreme rarity or exclusivity in formal or literary contexts.

Collocations

绝无仅有的机会unparalleled opportunity绝无仅有的存在unique existence

Synonyms

独一无二举世无双无与伦比

Antonyms

司空见惯屡见不鲜

Related Phrases

绝无此事idiom

There is absolutely no such thing

绝无仅有的天才phrase

a genius without equal

Pro Tip

Avoid Literal Translation

Do not translate this idiom word-for-word (e.g., 'absolutely none and only having'). The figurative meaning of 'unparalleled' or 'unique' is what matters.

Gold Rule

Context for Rarity

Use this idiom only when emphasizing that something is the ONLY example of its kind, not just 'very rare.' For example: 'This is the only surviving manuscript' → '这是绝无仅有的手稿'.

Word Origin

From the classical Chinese idiom '绝无而仅有' (jué wú ér jǐn yǒu), first recorded in the Tang Dynasty. The phrase combines '绝' (to cut off, none) and '仅有' (only having), emphasizing the absence of alternatives.

Usage Notes

Primarily used in written Chinese, especially in formal writing, literature, or official documents. Avoid using in casual conversation as it may sound overly dramatic.

Word Breakdown

绝

none; cut off

root

无

none; not have

root

仅

only; merely

root

有

have; exist

root

汉英词典

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