Chinese Idiom: 先发制人 (Xian Fa Zhi Ren)
English Translation: Strike first to gain control over others
pīn yīn: xiān fā zhì rén
Idiom Meaning: This idiom originally referred to the advantage of taking the initiative in warfare, implying that the first to act often holds a commanding position and can control the opponent. Nowadays, it broadly refers to taking preemptive action to seize the initiative.
Historical Source: “Records of the Grand Historian” (《史记 ·项羽本纪》)
Idiom Story:
In 209 BC, after Chen Sheng and Wu Guang’s uprising in Daze Village, a wave of revolts spread throughout the region. In September of that year, Yin Tong, the governor of Kuaiji (present-day Shaoxing, Zhejiang), recognized the deteriorating situation and feared that a rebellion might occur in his area. To mitigate the threat, he approached Xiang Liang, the uncle of the famous general Xiang Yu, suggesting they discuss a pressing matter.
Yin remarked, “The regions in Jiangxi are revolting; this is indeed a sign of the Qin Dynasty’s impending doom. I’ve heard that those who strike first can control others, while those who act later become controlled themselves. I wish to raise troops and would like you and Huan Chu to lead them.” At that moment, Huan Chu was on the run due to a violation of the Qin laws, and Xiang Liang had already been preparing for rebellion. Seizing the opportunity, Xiang Liang claimed that only Xiang Yu knew Huan Chu’s whereabouts and summoned him to join their discussion. During this meeting, Xiang Liang killed Yin Tong, took his head, and displayed it publicly along with the governor’s seal, thus announcing the rebellion.
The local populace, who harbored a deep resentment toward the Qin officials, were thrilled by Xiang Liang’s bold act. They rallied behind him, supporting Xiang Liang as the new governor of Kuaiji and establishing Xiang Yu as a leading general.
At that time, Xiang Yu was just twenty-four years old. Young men from the area, aware of his abilities, eagerly joined him in his cause. In a matter of days, Xiang Yu assembled a formidable force of eight thousand men, known as the “Eight Thousand Sons of the Clan,” which became the backbone of his military success.
The phrase “先发制人” later emerged from this story, emphasizing the value of acting decisively and taking the initiative to achieve victory.
