Yan You Zai Er – The words still linger in the ear

Yan You Zai Er The Words Still Linger In The Ear

Chinese Idiom: 言犹在耳 (Yan You Zai Er)

English Translation: The words still linger in the ear

pīn yīn: yán yóu zài ěr

Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes the vivid memory of someone’s words, as if they are still echoing in one’s ears. It conveys the idea of remembering something that was said clearly and profoundly.

Historical Source: Zuo Zhuan (《左传·文公七年》).

Idiom Story:

After the death of Duke Xiang of Jin, his young son, Crown Prince Yigao, faced a precarious political situation. Powerful officials, including Zhao Dun, plotted to install Jin Gongzi Yong, who was residing in the State of Qin, as the new ruler. When Crown Prince Yigao’s mother, Lady Mu Ying, learned of this plan, she was distraught. She cried and scolded the ministers in the court, questioning the injustice of seeking a ruler from abroad instead of allowing her son to ascend the throne.

In her desperation, she went to Zhao Dun’s house, holding her son and bowing deeply before him. She recounted the words of the late Duke Xiang, who had entrusted the upbringing and education of Yigao to Zhao Dun. He had said, “If this child becomes talented, I will thank you for your guidance; if not, I will blame you for not helping him.” She implored Zhao Dun, saying that even though Duke Xiang had passed away, his words still echoed in her ears, and it was unjust to abandon her son.

Fearing for his own position and the potential repercussions, Zhao Dun, along with the other officials, was compelled by Lady Mu Ying’s heartfelt plea and decided to change their plans. They reinstated Yigao as the rightful ruler, who became known as Duke Ling of Jin.

From this historical account, the phrase “言犹在耳” evolved into an idiom, signifying the lasting impact of spoken words that resonate in one’s memory, reflecting their significance and authority.

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