Chinese Idiom: 亡羊补牢 (Wang Yang Bu Lao)
English Translation: Fix the pen after the sheep is lost
pīn yīn: wáng yáng bǔ láo
Idiom Meaning: This idiom means that it is not too late to take corrective measures even after a mistake or loss has occurred. It emphasizes the importance of remedying problems promptly, regardless of when they are discovered.
Historical Source: “Strategies of the Warring States · Chu Strategies 4” (《战国策·楚策四》)
Idiom Story
During the Warring States period, Zhuang Xin was a minister serving the King of Chu, Chu Qingxiang. Zhuang Xin observed that the king’s close advisors—such as the Duke of Zhou, Xia Hou, Yan Lingjun, and Shou Lingjun—were indulging in luxury and neglecting state affairs. He became increasingly concerned about the weakening state of Chu and tried to warn the king.
Zhuang Xin advised the king, “With your close advisors indulging in pleasures and ignoring state matters, Chu’s capital will be in danger!” However, the king dismissed his warnings, calling him an “old fool” and taking his words lightly. Realizing that the situation would only worsen, Zhuang Xin resigned from his post and went into exile in Zhao.
As Zhuang Xin had feared, the Qin state eventually invaded Chu, occupying large territories and forcing King Qingxiang to flee to Chengyang. The king finally recognized the truth in Zhuang Xin’s earlier warnings and sent for him to return. Upon his return, the king asked Zhuang Xin what could be done to remedy the situation.
Zhuang Xin responded with encouragement, saying, “There is an old saying: ‘If you see a rabbit, you can still call for the hunting dog; it is not too late. If a sheep has escaped, repairing the pen is still not too late.’ In the past, King Tang and King Wu established prosperous states with only a small territory, while tyrants like Jie and Zhou, despite ruling over great lands, eventually lost their kingdoms. Even though Chu has lost much territory, it is still vast, and it’s not too late to make repairs and strengthen the state.”
This story led to the idiom “亡羊补牢,” which teaches that taking corrective actions, even after a setback, is always worthwhile and can still bring positive outcomes.
