Chinese Idiom: 如鱼得水 (Ru Yu De Shui)
English Translation: Like a fish in water
pīn yīn: rú yú dé shuǐ
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes someone who has found an ideal environment or a perfect match, suggesting that they are thriving or flourishing as much as a fish does in water. It can also imply that a relationship between two parties is exceptionally harmonious and suited to both.
Historical Source: 《三国志·蜀书·诸葛亮传》 (Records of the Three Kingdoms: Book of Shu, Biography of Zhuge Liang)
Idiom Story:
Zhuge Liang, also known as Kong Ming, was a highly respected strategist and statesman during the late Eastern Han Dynasty and early Three Kingdoms period. After the deaths of his parents, Zhuge Liang was raised by his uncle, Zhuge Xuan. He lived in seclusion for many years in Longzhong (near modern-day Hubei), where he pursued a simple life of farming while contemplating the political landscape.
During his time in seclusion, Zhuge Liang developed a deep understanding of the political situation and formulated strategic ideas. In 207 AD, Liu Bei, a warlord in need of capable advisors, visited Zhuge Liang three times, seeking his counsel. Liu Bei’s earnest desire to unify the land deeply impressed Zhuge Liang, who agreed to assist him.
Their discussions led to the formulation of the famous “Longzhong Plan” (隆中对), which outlined strategies to secure territories and form alliances. Liu Bei was so pleased with Zhuge Liang’s insights that he appointed him as his chief advisor. The close partnership between Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang soon flourished, leading Liu Bei to compare Zhuge Liang’s presence to a fish being in water—indicating that Zhuge Liang’s talents and Liu Bei’s ambitions were perfectly matched.
Liu Bei’s trust in Zhuge Liang’s strategies was well-founded. With Zhuge Liang’s guidance, Liu Bei established the Shu Han state in 221 AD, achieving significant success in his political and military endeavors.
The idiom “如鱼得水” thus emerged to describe the harmonious and beneficial relationship between Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang, and it is now used to signify a perfect match or ideal situation.
