Chinese Idiom: 有名无实 (You Ming Wu Shi)
English Translation: Famous but without substance
pīn yīn: yǒu míng wú shí
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes a situation where someone or something has a reputation or name but lacks actual substance, value, or effectiveness.
Historical Source: “The Book of Documents” (《国语，晋语八》)
Idiom Story:
The story behind this idiom involves an interaction between Shuxiang and Han Xuanzai. Shuxiang visited Han Xuanzai, who was troubled by poverty. In an unexpected move, Shuxiang congratulated him, prompting a puzzled response from Xuanzai. He remarked that while he had the title of a noble, he lacked the actual wealth or resources to compare himself with other officials. His poverty was the source of his distress, leading him to question why Shuxiang would celebrate his situation.
Shuxiang explained that in the past, Luan Wuzi had no land or ceremonial vessels yet gained respect solely through his moral character and adherence to laws. His reputation spread among the feudal lords, and even distant tribes respected him. As a result, he was able to govern the state of Jin effectively and avoided disaster.
In contrast, during the time of Huanzi, the situation deteriorated. Huanzi, characterized by luxury and greed, disregarded laws for personal gain, relying solely on Luan Wuzi’s reputation. His actions ultimately led to ruin. Following Huanzi, Huai Zi attempted to restore Luan Wuzi’s virtues but faced misfortune due to the legacy of Huanzi’s wrongdoings.
Shuxiang continued by stating that despite the wealth and power of the noble families, their downfall was inevitable if they lacked virtue. He concluded that Han Xuanzai’s modesty and potential for moral integrity were worthy of praise, contrasting with those who had fame without true merit.
Han Xuanzai, realizing the depth of Shuxiang’s wisdom, expressed his gratitude, acknowledging that his life was saved thanks to Shuxiang’s loyal counsel. This story illustrates the essence of “有名无实,” emphasizing that a good name without corresponding virtue or substance is ultimately hollow.
