threshold; idiom for heavy traffic of people
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesnoun
threshold (of a door); door sill
literaryAn archaic, literary term. In modern Chinese, the common word for 'threshold' is '门槛 (mén kǎn)'. This word is primarily known today from the idiom.
The threshold of the mansion was carved from fine stone.
In ancient texts, the term 'hù xiàn' is sometimes found.
phrase
idiom: to wear through the threshold
literaryThe complete idiom is '户限为穿 (hù xiàn wéi chuān)'. It describes a place with an extremely heavy flow of visitors, to the point of wearing down the threshold. Used to indicate great popularity or a bustling scene.
The famous doctor's clinic had a constant stream of patients every day, truly a case of the threshold being worn through.
For the grand opening sale, the new store was packed with customers, the threshold nearly worn through.
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'The threshold is worn through' describes a place with a great many people coming and going.