Chinese Idiom: 多多益善 (Duo Duo Yi Shan)
English Translation: The more, the better
pīn yīn: duō duō yì shàn
Idiom Meaning: This idiom expresses the idea that having more of something is preferable and beneficial.
Historical Source: 《史记·淮阴侯列传》 (Records of the Grand Historian: Biography of Han Xin).
Idiom Story:
Han Xin was a renowned general under Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty. In his early years, Han Xin faced poverty and humiliation, including having to rely on a washerwoman for food. However, he was determined to achieve great things, diligently studying military strategy and honing his skills.
During the Peasant Uprisings at the end of the Qin Dynasty, Han Xin initially allied with Xiang Yu but later switched allegiance to Liu Bang. He played a crucial role in the Chu-Han Contention, helping Liu Bang defeat Xiang Yu and unify China. Due to his numerous achievements, he was awarded the title of King of Chu.
After Liu Bang became emperor, he grew suspicious of his talented generals, fearing they might rebel. Following a plot devised by Chen Ping, Han Xin was accused of conspiracy and demoted from his title, becoming Marquis of Huaiyin. He then lived a quiet life in the capital, Chang’an, often pretending to be ill to avoid court meetings.
One day, Liu Bang asked Han Xin, “How many troops can a general like me command?” Han Xin replied, “Your Majesty, you can command no more than 100,000.” Liu Bang then inquired, “And how many can you command?” A bit overconfident, Han Xin responded, “I can command as many as there are.” In essence, he meant that he preferred to lead as many troops as possible.
Liu Bang laughed and sarcastically retorted, “If you can command more troops, then why were you captured?” Han Xin felt embarrassed and quickly explained, “Your Majesty may not be adept at commanding large armies, but you excel at utilizing and managing generals, which is why I was captured.”
From this story, the phrase “多多益善” (the more, the better) was derived, reflecting Han Xin’s confidence in leading larger armies while also highlighting the importance of strategy and leadership in warfare.
