Chinese Idiom: 不动声色 (Bu Dong Sheng Se)
English Translation: Without changing one’s voice or expression
pīn yīn: bù dòng shēng sè
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes someone who remains calm, composed, and does not show any emotions or reactions, even in stressful or difficult situations. It conveys the idea of maintaining self-control and a steady demeanor, revealing nothing through facial expressions or tone of voice.
Historical Source: Xiāngzhōu Zhòujǐn Táng Jì (《相州昼锦堂记》) by Ouyang Xiu, a renowned scholar and official of the Northern Song Dynasty.
Idiom Story:
The idiom “不动声色” originates from a story about Han Qi, a prominent official during the Northern Song Dynasty. Han Qi, known for his integrity and dedication to public service, served as a military governor and later as a high-ranking minister. In the early 1050s, during the reign of Emperor Renzong, Han Qi returned to his hometown, Xiangzhou (now part of Anyang, Henan Province), where he built the Zhòujǐn Táng (昼锦堂), a hall named to symbolize his “daytime glory,” a reference to his successful return home.
Ouyang Xiu, who was a close friend of Han Qi, wrote a commemorative piece about the Zhòujǐn Táng to praise Han Qi’s achievements and his attitude toward wealth and power. In the essay, Ouyang Xiu contrasts Han Qi’s noble character with the more common, shallow pursuit of wealth and fame. He highlights how Han Qi’s demeanor remained composed and unshaken, even when facing critical decisions and significant responsibilities.
Ouyang Xiu wrote: “When facing great matters, Han Qi remained calm and composed, with his robe properly arranged and holding his ceremonial tablet. Without moving his voice or expression, he managed to bring peace and stability to the empire, just as stable as Mount Tai. Truly, he was a minister of the state, whose great achievements are worthy of being engraved on bronze and stone, sung in poems and songs. His glory is a source of pride not just for his hometown but for the entire nation.”
This passage emphasizes Han Qi’s ability to maintain his composure and not show his emotions or intentions through his expressions or voice, even in the most challenging circumstances. Over time, the phrase “不动声色” became an idiom to describe a person who remains calm and unflustered, with no outward display of their internal emotions or thoughts.
