
Chinese Idiom: 国士无双 (Guo Shi Wu Shuang)
English Translation: A national hero without equal
pīn yīn: guó shì wú shuāng
Idiom Meaning: Refers to an extraordinary talent in the country, unmatched by anyone else.
Historical Source: Records of the Grand Historian (《史记》) – Biographies of the Marquis of Huaiyin (淮阴侯列传).
Idiom Story:
Han Xin was a prominent military strategist during the Chu-Han Contention period. Initially, he served under Xiang Yu, who did not heed his advice and relegated him to a minor position as a gatekeeper. Frustrated, Han Xin decided to defect to Liu Bang, the future Emperor of Han.
At first, Han Xin was not given significant responsibilities and was appointed as a minor official in charge of grain storage. However, he was later recommended by the influential general Teng Gong (Teng Yao) to Liu Bang, who appointed him as Zhi Cu Dou Wei (the officer responsible for managing military supplies).
Although the position was not high-ranking, Han Xin used this opportunity to connect with Prime Minister Xiao He. Recognizing Han Xin’s exceptional abilities, Xiao He held him in high regard. However, feeling unappreciated, Han Xin speculated that despite Xiao He’s support, Liu Bang might not be interested in promoting him. As a result, he attempted to escape with a group of officers.
Upon learning about Han Xin’s escape, Xiao He immediately pursued him and brought him back. When Liu Bang questioned Xiao He about why he pursued Han Xin while ignoring the others, Xiao He responded:
“诸将易得耳。至如信者,国士无双。”
(General officers are easy to come by. As for Han Xin, he is a national hero without equal.)
Xiao He elaborated that if Liu Bang merely wanted to be king of Han Zhong (a region in modern-day Shaanxi), he could do without Han Xin. However, if Liu Bang aspired to conquer the world, Han Xin was the only one capable of assisting him in such grand plans.
This story highlights Han Xin’s exceptional talents and potential, which led to the expression “国士无双,” signifying a person of unparalleled capability and talent in the nation.