Chinese character idioms (cultural connotation and humor)

What color are the eyes of an owl? This is a classic Chinese character saying. In fact, the answer is very simple, it is "yellow". However, there is profound cultural connotation and humor behind this remark.

Why are owl eyes yellow?

Owls are nocturnal birds of prey. Their eyes are very special, not only can they see distant objects, but they can also easily catch prey in the dark. This is due to the extremely high sensitivity and adaptability of owl eyes, which can maintain clear vision in low light conditions.

The yellow eyes are an evolutionary form of owl adaptation to night hunting. Yellow eyes absorb light better, allowing the owl to see prey more clearly in the dark. In addition, the yellow eyes reduce reflection, preventing prey from detecting the owl's presence.

Owl’s eyes and cultural connotations

In addition to scientific reasons, owl’s eyes also have profound cultural connotations. In Chinese culture, the owl is endowed with mysterious and ominous symbolic meanings, and is often used to describe evil and dangerous things. The owl's yellow eyes are regarded as a mysterious force with supernatural abilities.

In ancient myths and legends, owls are often depicted as mythical beasts with extraordinary abilities. Their yellow eyes can penetrate the fog and see the future. Therefore, the owl's eyes are also regarded as a symbol of predicting the future, and are often used to predict good and bad luck.

Owl’s eyes and humor

In addition to cultural connotations, owl eyes are often used to create humor and humor. For example, there is a saying called "Owl's eyes can see the soul", which means that a person's eyes are very magical and can see through the hearts of others. Although this sentence is a bit exaggerated, it also expresses the importance and awe people attach to their eyes.

There is also a popular joke, which is based on the theme of owl eyes. The general idea is that a person's eyes look very bright, but in fact they are just wearing a pair of yellow sunglasses. Although this sentence is a bit ridiculous, it also reflects people's emphasis on and pursuit of external image.