# 月下老人

yuè xià lǎo rén

A matchmaker, or the traditional deity of matchmaking

## Meaning & wording

**Literally:** An old man beneath the moon

**Register:** Standard · expressive

[People & connection](https://chinese-idioms.yudis.dev/idioms/topics/relationships)

## When to use it

Use playfully for someone who introduces a romantic couple.

An introduction should respect both people’s wishes.

## Understanding the expression

The old man beneath the moon is associated with matchmaking in Chinese cultural imagery. In everyday conversation, the expression can be a playful title for a friend or relative who introduces two people and helps a romance begin. It need not refer to literal religious belief. The role concerns bringing potential partners together, rather than guaranteeing that a relationship will succeed. Modern introductions still depend on the consent and compatibility of the people involved.

## Examples

阿姨做月下老人，介绍他们认识。

### Traditional Chinese

阿姨做月下老人，介紹他們認識。

ā yí zuò yuè xià lǎo rén ， jiè shào tā men rèn shi 。

Their aunt played matchmaker and introduced them.

这次聚会，我可不当月下老人。

### Traditional Chinese

這次聚會，我可不當月下老人。

zhè cì jù huì ， wǒ kě bù dāng yuè xià lǎo rén 。

I am not going to play matchmaker at this gathering.

他们请共同的朋友当月下老人。

### Traditional Chinese

他們請共同的朋友當月下老人。

tā men qǐng gòng tóng de péng yǒu dāng yuè xià lǎo rén 。

They asked a mutual friend to act as matchmaker.

这位月下老人促成了两段姻缘。

### Traditional Chinese

這位月下老人促成了兩段姻緣。

zhè wèi yuè xià lǎo rén cù chéng le liǎng duàn yīn yuán 。

This matchmaker helped bring about two marriages.

## Sources & reference checks

Original explanations and examples from Chinese Idioms Almanac. Source-checked October 6, 2026.

- [CC-CEDICT · forms & pronunciation](https://www.mdbg.net/chinese/dictionary?page=worddict&wdqb=%E6%9C%88%E4%B8%8B%E8%80%81%E4%BA%BA)

- [Ministry of Education · 成語典](https://dict.idioms.moe.edu.tw/idiomView.jsp?ID=713&webMd=1&la=0)

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