- 君子之交淡如水 jūnzǐzhījiāodànrúshuǐ true friendship is pure as waterA gentleman's friendship is based on shared ideals and is not overly intimate or formal; true friendship is simple and pure like water.
- 君子之交淡若水 jūnzǐzhījiāodànruòshuǐ friendship between gentlemen is as pure as waterfriendship between gentlemen is thin like water; a friendship between noble people is based on virtue rather than personal gain and does not require constant contact
