Chinese Idioms from Han Dynasty

Chinese Idiom: 奋不顾身 (Fen Bu Gu Shen) English Translation: Rushing Forward Without Concern for Oneself pīn yīn: fèn bù gù shēn Idiom Meaning: This phrase describes a spirit of bravery and selflessness, emphasizing the willingness to move forward courageously without considering one’s own safety. It reflects a dedication to serving others and sacrificing oneself for […]

Chinese Idiom: 夜郎自大 (Ye Lang Zi Da) English Translation: Night Lang is arrogant pīn yīn: yè láng zì dà Idiom Meaning: This idiom metaphorically describes someone who is ignorant and uninformed yet holds an inflated sense of self-importance. Historical Source: “Book of Han” (《汉书·西南夷传》), which recounts the history of the southwestern tribes during the Western

Chinese Idiom: 运筹帷幄 (Yun Chou Wei Wo) English Translation: Strategizing in the tent pīn yīn: yùn chóu wéi wò Idiom Meaning: Originally referring to planning military strategies in a tent, it now generally means to strategize or direct affairs, especially in a commanding role. Historical Source: “Records of the Grand Historian” (《史记·高祖本纪》). Idiom Story: During

Chinese Idiom: 克己奉公 (Ke Ji Feng Gong) English Translation: Self-restraint for the public good pīn yīn: kè jǐ fèng gōng Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to the practice of strict self-discipline and prioritizing public interests over personal desires. Historical Source: Book of the Later Han (《后汉书·祭遵传》). Idiom Story: Ji Zun (祭遵), known by his courtesy

Chinese Idiom: 妒贤嫉能 (Du Xian Ji Neng) English Translation: Jealous of the virtuous and resentful of the capable pīn yīn: dù xián jí néng Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to the jealousy or resentment directed toward individuals who possess good character and abilities. It highlights the negative consequences of being envious of those who are

Chinese Idiom: 志大才疏 (Zhi Da Cai Shu) English Translation: Great ambition but shallow talent pīn yīn: zhì dà cái shū Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to someone who has lofty ambitions but lacks the ability to achieve them. It implies a disparity between one’s aspirations and actual capabilities. Historical Source: The idiom originates from Hou

Chinese Idiom: 穷当益坚 (Tian Zhen Lan Man) English Translation: The older one becomes, the more resolute one should be pīn yīn: qióng dāng yì jiān Idiom Meaning: Originally, this idiom suggests that as one ages, their ambitions should grow stronger; it is now commonly used to describe individuals who remain energetic and determined even in

Chinese Idiom: 投笔从戎 (Tou Bi Cong Rong) English Translation: Throw down the brush and join the army pīn yīn: tóu bǐ cóng róng Idiom Meaning: This idiom signifies abandoning literary pursuits to pursue a military career. It also reflects a person’s determination and ambition. Historical Source: Book of the Later Han (《后汉书·班超传》). Idiom Story: Ban