Chinese Idiom: 落井下石 (Luo Jing Xia Shi)
English Translation: Drop stones while someone is in the well
pīn yīn: luò jǐng xià shí
Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to taking advantage of someone’s difficulties to harm or exploit them.
Historical Source: The idiom originates from Memorial for Liu Zongyuan (《柳子厚墓志铭》) by Han Yu (韩愈) during the Tang Dynasty.
Idiom Story:
A memorial is a literary form used to honor the deceased, comprising two parts: “志” (zhi) and “铭” (ming). The “志” part is written in prose and outlines the deceased’s name, origin, and life, while the “铭” part consists of rhymed verses that praise and mourn the deceased. In Memorial for Liu Zongyuan, Han Yu praised Liu Zongyuan (also known as Liu Zihou) for his concern for the suffering of the people, his loyalty to friends, and his selflessness. He then contrasted this with the behavior of certain scholars and officials.
Han Yu wrote:
“Alas, one shows integrity and righteousness only in times of hardship. When people are at ease, they appear affectionate, often gathering together for banquets and games, feigning joviality and sharing sweet words, holding hands and exchanging heartfelt sentiments, swearing undying loyalty to each other as if it were sincere. Yet, when faced with minor conflicts, as insignificant as a hair, they quickly turn their backs, disregarding their friends who have fallen into a pit. Not only do they refuse to lend a hand, but they also take the opportunity to push them further down and throw stones upon them.”
The essence of this passage is that true integrity and loyalty are revealed only during times of hardship. In moments of comfort, many people pretend to care deeply for one another, sharing laughter and promises. However, when minor interests are at stake—even if they are trivial—they swiftly abandon their friends, ignoring their plight and even exacerbating their suffering. Han Yu lamented that such behavior is common among people.
As a result of this vivid expression of betrayal and opportunism, “落井下石” has come to symbolize the act of exploiting someone’s misfortune for personal gain.
