各显神通
gè xiǎn shén tōng
each shows what they can do; each uses their own methods
Character by character
各gè
each
each
显xiǎn
show
show
神shén
magic
magic
通tōng
powers
powers
Example
为了吸引顾客，商家们各显神通，有的打折，有的送礼品。
To draw customers every shop has its own trick: some give discounts, others free gifts.
Tone: neutral.
Usage and origin
The second half of 八仙过海，各显神通: the Eight Immortals cross the sea, each by their own magic. Said of rivals or teams each trying their own way to reach the same goal.
Learn this in Lesson 146 · HSK 7–9: 马拉松热 (Marathon fever)
A dialogue, a reading, word cards with audio and a drill that uses it, in Learn Chinese with Bao. The first lessons of every level are free.
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