Chinese Idiom: 因地制宜 (Yin Di Zhi Yi)
English Translation: Adapting measures to local conditions
pīn yīn: yīn dì zhì yí
Idiom Meaning: This idiom emphasizes the importance of taking appropriate measures based on the specific conditions of different regions. “因” (yīn) means according to or relying on; “地” (dì) refers to the land or local conditions; “制” (zhì) means to formulate or devise; and “宜” (yí) means suitable or appropriate.
Historical Source: “Wu-Yue Spring and Autumn” (《吴越春秋·阖闾内传》)
Idiom Story:
During the Warring States period, Wu Yuan, the son of the Chu minister Wu She, fled to the southern state of Wu after suffering persecution under King Ping of Chu. In Wu, he gained the trust and favor of King He Lu, who valued his advice.
One day, while discussing strategies to strengthen the state, King He Lu expressed his desire to make Wu powerful and asked Wu Yuan for suggestions. Wu Yuan advised, “To make the state prosperous and to command respect from neighboring countries, it is essential first to fortify the city defenses and ensure that the walls are high and sturdy. Secondly, we must produce high-quality weapons in large quantities. Finally, we need to boost agricultural production to fill our granaries.”
King He Lu was pleased with Wu Yuan’s practical suggestions and responded, “Building city walls and granaries, and adapting to local conditions—is this not the right approach to asserting our power over neighboring states?” His statement highlighted the importance of taking into account the specific local circumstances when implementing strategies for statecraft.
Thus, “因地制宜” became a guiding principle in governance, illustrating the necessity of tailoring solutions to the unique challenges and resources of each region.
