摘要：，，This article explains the rules of flat-and-level matching in couplets, providing a detailed and straightforward explanation of the definitions involved. It delves into the intricacies of couplet formation, elucidating on the importance of maintaining balance and harmony through the use of appropriate syllables and tones.

Title: Understanding the Rules of Antithetical Couplets: Definition and Explanation

In the vast and rich cultural heritage of China, the art of composing couplets holds a unique position. Antithetical couplets, also known as "duichang," are a traditional form of poetic expression that embodies the essence of Chinese language and culture. At the core of this art lies the intricate system of ping仄 (flat) and dui仗 (counterpoint) rules, which govern the harmony and balance of these couplets. In this article, we delve into the definition and explanation of these rules, offering a comprehensive guide to understanding their essence and practical application.

What are Antithetical Couplets?

Antithetical couplets are a special genre of Chinese poetry, typically composed of two phrases that are parallel in structure and meaning. They are often used in various cultural contexts, from festive occasions to commemorative events. Each couplet follows a specific pattern of ping仄 (flat) and dui仗 (counterpoint), ensuring harmony and balance in both sound and meaning.

Definition of Ping仄 (Flat) and Duo仗 (Counterpoint)

At the heart of the art of composing couplets lies the concept of ping仄 and dui仗. Ping仄 refers to the rhythm and pitch of the characters, while dui仗 denotes the corresponding counterpoint or matching phrase. Together, they form the foundation for creating harmonious and balanced couplets.

Explanation of the Rules

1、Phonological Balance: The art of couplet composition is primarily based on phonological balance. Each character in a couplet must be carefully chosen to maintain harmony in sound and pitch. This is achieved through the application of ping仄 and dui仗 rules, ensuring that corresponding characters match not only in meaning but also in sound.

2、Semantic Correspondence: In addition to phonological balance, semantic correspondence is also crucial. The meaning of each character in a couplet should complement and enhance the other, creating a unified message. This is achieved through careful selection of words that not only follow the rules of ping仄 and dui仗 but also convey a coherent message.

3、Structure and Form: The structure of an antithetical couplet follows a specific pattern, typically consisting of two phrases with matching numbers of characters. Each phrase is divided into equal parts, with corresponding words matching in terms of their ping仄 and dui仗. This ensures that the overall structure of the couplet is harmonious and balanced.

Practical Application of the Rules

To understand the practical application of the rules, let us consider an example couplet: "春风又绿江南岸，明月何时照我还?" (Spring breeze has once again greened the south bank, when will the bright moon shine on my return?). Here, "春风又绿江南岸" (Spring breeze has once again greened the south bank) and "明月何时照我还" (When will the bright moon shine on my return) follow the rules of ping仄 and dui仗. The first phrase ends on a ping仄 sound, while the second phrase ends on a rising note, creating a harmonious balance between the two phrases. Additionally, the meaning of each phrase complements the other, creating a profound message about longing for home.

In summary, understanding the rules of antithetical couplets is essential for appreciating this traditional form of poetic expression. The application of ping仄 (flat) and dui仗 (counterpoint) rules ensures that these couplets are harmonious and balanced not only in sound but also in meaning. By following these rules, one can create profound and meaningful couplets that resonate with people across cultures and ages.