Chinese Idiom: 食言而肥 (Shi Yan Er Fei)
English Translation: Grow fat on broken promises
pīn yīn: shí yán ér féi
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes a person who does not keep their word, is untrustworthy, and only seeks personal gain.
Historical Source: “左传” (Zuo Zhuan), specifically in the entry for the 25th year of Duke Ai of Lu.
Idiom Story:
During the Spring and Autumn period, a minister named Meng Wubai from the State of Lu was known for his lack of integrity. Duke Ai of Lu was quite displeased with him for his untrustworthy nature.
On one occasion, a banquet was held at Wuwu (present-day Nanyin County, Shandong), and both Meng Wubai and another minister named Guo Chong, who was notably overweight and favored by the duke, were in attendance. Jealous of Guo Chong’s status, Meng Wubai seized the opportunity while toasting Duke Ai to mock Guo by asking, “What have you been eating to become so fat?”
Duke Ai, disgusted by Meng Wubai’s behavior, responded on Guo Chong’s behalf, saying, “It’s from eating your broken promises that he has become so fat!” This remark served as a sharp rebuke to Meng Wubai, pointing out his habit of failing to keep his promises. The public nature of the statement embarrassed Meng Wubai, leaving him feeling ashamed and humiliated.
This story illustrates the essence of the idiom “食言而肥,” emphasizing the consequences of dishonesty and the self-serving nature of those who do not honor their words.
