achieve top honors three times in a row; three consecutive successes
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesidiom
to achieve first place in three consecutive imperial examinations
formalOriginally from the Ming and Qing dynasties' imperial examination system. The 'three top honors' (三元, sān yuán) refer specifically to being the top scorer in the provincial (解元), national (会元), and palace (状元) examinations consecutively. This is an extreme and rare academic achievement.
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, those who could achieve the 'triple first' were extremely rare and were regarded as incarnations of the literary star.
He was widely read and exceptionally talented, and ultimately realized his dream of achieving the triple first in the examinations.
idiom
to win three times in a row; to succeed consecutively three times
neutralModern usage extends the meaning beyond imperial exams to any field where one achieves victory or success three consecutive times, such as in sports, competitions, or business milestones.
This player is in amazing form and has already won three consecutive matches this season.
All three of the company's new products have become hits, truly achieving three consecutive successes in the market.
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He guessed the answer correctly three times in a row, just like winning the triple crown.