1

画蛇添足

Add legs to a snake

(huà shé tiān zú)

Overdo something

In ancient China, a man drew a snake and added legs to show off, ruining his work.

1. 别再画蛇添足了，事情已经很完美。
Don’t overdo it; things are already perfect.
Bié zài huà shé tiān zú le, shìqíng yǐjīng hěn wánměi.
2. 他总是画蛇添足，把简单的问题复杂化。
He always overcomplicates simple matters.
Tā zǒng shì huà shé tiān zú, bǎ jiǎndān de wèntí fùzá huà.
3. 写报告时不要画蛇添足，保持简洁就好。
Don’t overdo it in your report; keep it simple.
Xiě bàogào shí búyào huà shé tiān zú, bǎochí jiǎnjié jiù hǎo.
4. 她在菜里加太多调料，真是画蛇添足。
She added too many seasonings, really overdoing it.
Tā zài cài lǐ jiā tài duō tiáoliào, zhēn shì huà shé tiān zú.

2

井底之蛙

Frog in a well

(jǐng dǐ zhī wā)

Narrow-minded

A frog in a well thinks its small view is the whole world.

1. 不要做井底之蛙，要多看看外面的世界。
Don’t be narrow-minded; see more of the world.
Bùyào zuò jǐng dǐ zhī wā, yào duō kàn kàn wàimiàn de shìjiè.
2. 他总是井底之蛙，不了解新科技。
He is narrow-minded and doesn’t understand new technology.
Tā zǒng shì jǐng dǐ zhī wā, bù liǎojiě xīn kējì.
3. 井底之蛙无法理解大城市的生活。
A narrow-minded person can’t understand life in a big city.
Jǐng dǐ zhī wā wúfǎ lǐjiě dà chéngshì de shēnghuó.
4. 学会跳出井底之蛙的视角，你会发现更多机会。
Step out of your limited perspective, and you’ll find more opportunities.
Xuéhuì tiàochū jǐng dǐ zhī wā de shìjiǎo, nǐ huì fāxiàn gèng duō jīhuì.

3

亡羊补牢

Better late than never (wáng yáng bǔ láo)

Take precautions after suffering a loss

A man lost sheep due to a broken pen, fixed it afterward; better late than never.

1. 虽然错过了开会，但亡羊补牢，总结经验也好。
Although we missed the meeting, better late than never.
Suīrán cuòguò le kāihuì, dàn wáng yáng bǔ láo, zǒngjié jīngyàn yě hǎo.
2. 发现漏洞后及时修复，亡羊补牢。
Fixing the flaw promptly is better late than never.
Fāxiàn lòudòng hòu jíshí xiūfù, wáng yáng bǔ láo.
3. 虽然项目延期了，但亡羊补牢，可以避免更大损失。
Even though the project is delayed, taking action now is better than later.
Suīrán xiàngmù yánqī le, dàn wáng yáng bǔ láo, kěyǐ bìmiǎn gèng dà sǔnshī.
4. 孩子没带雨伞，父母提醒他下次注意，亡羊补牢。
The child forgot the umbrella; parents remind him next time, better late than never.
Háizi méi dài yǔsǎn, fùmǔ tíxǐng tā xià cì zhùyì, wáng yáng bǔ láo.

4

掩耳盗铃

Deceive oneself (yǎn ěr dào líng)

Fool oneself by ignoring the obvious

A thief covered his ears while stealing a bell, thinking no one would hear.

1. 他以为没人发现，其实是在掩耳盗铃。
He thought no one noticed, but he was fooling himself.
Tā yǐwéi méi rén fāxiàn, qíshí shì zài yǎn ěr dào líng.
2. 掩耳盗铃只会让问题更严重。
Ignoring the problem will only make it worse.
Yǎn ěr dào líng zhǐ huì ràng wèntí gèng yánzhòng.
3. 别掩耳盗铃，承认错误更好。
Don’t fool yourself; it’s better to admit mistakes.
Bié yǎn ěr dào líng, chéngrèn cuòwù gèng hǎo.
4. 他掩耳盗铃，以为没人知道他的计划。
He deceived himself, thinking no one knew his plan.
Tā yǎn ěr dào líng, yǐwéi méi rén zhīdào tā de jìhuà.

5

自相矛盾

Self-contradictory (zì xiāng máo dùn)

Contradict oneself

A man advertised his spear could pierce anything and his shield could block anything; obviously contradictory.

1. 他的话自相矛盾，让人不信任。
His words are self-contradictory and untrustworthy.
Tā de huà zì xiāng máo dùn, ràng rén bù xìnrèn.
2. 这份报告有些地方自相矛盾，需要修改。
Some parts of this report contradict themselves and need revision.
Zhè fèn bàogào yǒuxiē dìfāng zì xiāng máo dùn, xūyào xiūgǎi.
3. 别自相矛盾，想清楚再说。
Don’t contradict yourself; think carefully before speaking.
Bié zì xiāng máo dùn, xiǎng qīngchǔ zài shuō.
4. 他的行为与他说的话自相矛盾。
His actions contradict his words.
Tā de xíngwéi yǔ tā shuō de huà zì xiāng máo dùn.

6

纸上谈兵

Talk about soldiers on paper (zhǐ shàng tán bīng)

Empty talk / Armchair strategist

Originates from Zhao general’s student who only talked tactics but failed in battle.

1. 他总是纸上谈兵，从不实践。
He always talks tactics but never practices.
Tā zǒng shì zhǐ shàng tán bīng, cóng bù shíjiàn.
2. 写计划很容易，但不能只是纸上谈兵。
Writing plans is easy, but don’t just theorize.
Xiě jìhuà hěn róngyì, dàn bù néng zhǐ shàng tán bīng.
3. 纸上谈兵不能解决实际问题。
Theory alone can’t solve real problems.
Zhǐ shàng tán bīng bù néng jiějué shíjì wèntí.
4. 他只是纸上谈兵，没参加过任何战斗。
He only talks theory and has never fought.
Tā zhǐ shì zhǐ shàng tán bīng, méi cānjiā guò rènhé zhàndòu.

7

塞翁失马

Old man loses horse (sàiwēng shī mǎ)

A blessing in disguise

A frontier man lost his horse, which later brought unexpected fortune.

1. 他失业了，但塞翁失马，反而找到了更好工作。
He lost his job, but it turned out better.
Tā shīyè le, dàn sàiwēng shī mǎ, fǎn’ér zhǎodào le gèng hǎo gōngzuò.
2. 塞翁失马，焉知非福。
What seems unlucky may be fortunate.
Sàiwēng shī mǎ, yān zhī fēi fú.
3. 她生病了，但通过治疗学会了照顾自己，真是塞翁失马。
She got sick but learned self-care—truly a blessing in disguise.
Tā shēngbìng le, dàn tōngguò zhìliáo xuéhuì le zhàogù zìjǐ, zhēn shì sàiwēng shī mǎ.
4. 我们的计划失败了，但塞翁失马，我们找到了更好的方法。
Our plan failed, but it led us to a better way.
Wǒmen de jìhuà shībài le, dàn sàiwēng shī mǎ, wǒmen zhǎodào le gèng hǎo de fāngfǎ.

8

守株待兔

Guard tree stump, wait for rabbit (shǒu zhū dài tù)

Wait idly for opportunities

A farmer waited by a tree stump for a rabbit, expecting luck again.

1. 不要守株待兔，要主动寻找机会。
Don’t wait idly; seek opportunities.
Bùyào shǒu zhū dài tù, yào zhǔdòng xúnzhǎo jīhuì.
2. 他总守株待兔，希望不努力也能成功。
He waits idly, hoping for success without effort.
Tā zǒng shǒu zhū dài tù, xīwàng bù nǔlì yě néng chénggōng.
3. 守株待兔是做事被动的表现。
Waiting idly shows a passive approach.
Shǒu zhū dài tù shì zuòshì bèidòng de biǎoxiàn.
4. 投资不能守株待兔，要有策略。
Investment requires strategy, not waiting idly.
Tóuzī bù néng shǒu zhū dài tù, yào yǒu cèlüè.

9

对牛弹琴

Play lute to a cow (duì niú tán qín)

Wasting effort on the unappreciative

A man played music to a cow; it couldn’t understand.

1. 给他解释技术问题，简直对牛弹琴。
Explaining tech issues to him is wasted effort.
Gěi tā jiěshì jìshù wèntí, jiǎnzhí duì niú tán qín.
2. 他不懂艺术，对牛弹琴没用。
He doesn’t understand art; teaching him is pointless.
Tā bù dǒng yìshù, duì niú tán qín méi yòng.
3. 别跟他谈理想，对牛弹琴。
Don’t talk about ideals to him; it’s wasted effort.
Bié gēn tā tán lǐxiǎng, duì niú tán qín.
4. 对牛弹琴只会浪费时间。
Wasting effort on the unappreciative wastes time.
Duì niú tán qín zhǐ huì làngfèi shíjiān.

10

杯弓蛇影

Mistake bow for snake (bēi gōng shé yǐng)

Overly suspicious / Imagining danger

A man saw a reflection of a bow in wine and thought it a snake.

1. 他总是杯弓蛇影，疑神疑鬼。
He is always overly suspicious.
Tā zǒng shì bēi gōng shé yǐng, yí shén yí guǐ.
2. 别杯弓蛇影，事实并没有问题。
Don’t imagine danger; nothing is wrong.
Bié bēi gōng shé yǐng, shìshí bìng méiyǒu wèntí.
3. 杯弓蛇影会让你错过机会。
Over-suspicion may make you miss opportunities.
Bēi gōng shé yǐng huì ràng nǐ cuòguò jīhuì.
4. 他看到阴影就害怕，真是杯弓蛇影。
He is scared by shadows; really imagining danger.
Tā kàn dào yīnyǐng jiù hàipà, zhēn shì bēi gōng shé yǐng.

11

一箭双雕

One arrow, two eagles (yī jiàn shuāng diāo)

Kill two birds with one stone

Shoot one arrow to kill two eagles; accomplish two things at once.

1. 这次会议可以一箭双雕，解决两个问题。
This meeting can solve two problems at once.
Zhè cì huìyì kěyǐ yī jiàn shuāng diāo, jiějué liǎng gè wèntí.
2. 旅游和学习可以一箭双雕。
You can combine travel and study.
Lǚyóu hé xuéxí kěyǐ yī jiàn shuāng diāo.
3. 他想一箭双雕，既赚钱又交朋友。
He wants to earn money and make friends simultaneously.
Tā xiǎng yī jiàn shuāng diāo, jì zhuànqián yòu jiāo péngyǒu.
4. 我们可以一箭双雕，买书送礼。
We can achieve two goals at once: buy books and give gifts.
Wǒmen kěyǐ yī jiàn shuāng diāo, mǎi shū sòng lǐ.

12

狐假虎威

Fox exploits tiger’s might (hú jiǎ hǔ wēi)

Using others’ power to intimidate

A fox borrowed the tiger’s power to scare other animals.

1. 他狐假虎威，总是仗势欺人。
He uses others’ power to intimidate.
Tā hú jiǎ hǔ wēi, zǒng shì zhàng shì qī rén.
2. 公司里的小主管狐假虎威，对同事发号施令。
A minor manager intimidates using authority.
Gōngsī lǐ de xiǎo zhǔguǎn hú jiǎ hǔ wēi, duì tóngshì fāhào shīlìng.
3. 不要狐假虎威，自己有能力就行。
Don’t rely on others’ power; be capable yourself.
Bié hú jiǎ hǔ wēi, zìjǐ yǒu nénglì jiù xíng.
4. 他狐假虎威，把同事吓得不敢说话。
He intimidated colleagues by exploiting power.
Tā hú jiǎ hǔ wēi, bǎ tóngshì xià de bù gǎn shuōhuà.

13

三心二意

Three hearts, two minds (sān xīn èr yì)

Indecisive / Half-hearted

Someone with “three hearts and two minds” cannot focus on one thing.

1. 做事不要三心二意，要专心致志。
Don’t be indecisive; focus on one thing.
Zuòshì bùyào sān xīn èr yì, yào zhuānxīn zhìzhì.
2. 他三心二意，总是改变计划。
He is indecisive, always changing plans.
Tā sān xīn èr yì, zǒng shì gǎibiàn jìhuà.
3. 三心二意会导致失败。
Indecision leads to failure.
Sān xīn èr yì huì dǎozhì shībài.
4. 学习时三心二意，效率很低。
Being half-hearted in studying reduces efficiency.
Xuéxí shí sān xīn èr yì, xiàolǜ hěn dī.

14

千里之行，始于足下

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step (qiān lǐ zhī xíng, shǐ yú zú xià)

Great achievements start with small steps

Laozi said that even the longest journey starts with one step.

1. 读完一本书，千里之行，始于足下。
Finishing a book starts with one page.
Dú wán yī běn shū, qiān lǐ zhī xíng, shǐ yú zú xià.
2. 学语言，千里之行，始于足下。
Learning a language starts with one word.
Xué yǔyán, qiān lǐ zhī xíng, shǐ yú zú xià.
3. 开公司也是千里之行，始于足下。
Starting a company begins with the first step.
Kāi gōngsī yě shì qiān lǐ zhī xíng, shǐ yú zú xià.
4. 每天跑步一点点，千里之行，始于足下。
Running a little each day is the start of a long journey.
Měitiān pǎobù yīdiǎndiǎn, qiān lǐ zhī xíng, shǐ yú zú xià.

15

口是心非

Mouth says yes, heart says no (kǒu shì xīn fēi)

Say one thing, mean another

Someone speaks politely but thinks differently in heart.

1. 他口是心非，说同意其实不同意。
He said yes but actually disagreed.
Tā kǒu shì xīn fēi, shuō tóngyì qíshí bù tóngyì.
2. 别口是心非，直接表达你的想法。
Don’t say one thing and mean another; express yourself.
Bié kǒu shì xīn fēi, zhíjiē biǎodá nǐ de xiǎngfǎ.
3. 口是心非让人难以信任。
Saying one thing but meaning another makes people untrustworthy.
Kǒu shì xīn fēi ràng rén nányǐ xìnrèn.
4. 面试时不要口是心非，诚实最重要。
During interviews, honesty is key.
Miànshì shí bùyào kǒu shì xīn fēi, chéngshí zuì zhòngyào.

16

一鸣惊人

One chirp surprises people (yī míng jīng rén)

Surprise the world with a single act

A man remained silent but suddenly amazed everyone with his talent.

1. 他的作品一鸣惊人，获得大奖。
His work amazed everyone and won a prize.
Tā de zuòpǐn yī míng jīng rén, huòdé dàjiǎng.
2. 小选手一鸣惊人，成为焦点。
The young contestant surprised everyone.
Xiǎo xuǎnshǒu yī míng jīng rén, chéngwéi jiāodiǎn.
3. 他一鸣惊人，成功转行。
He successfully switched careers in a surprising way.
Tā yī míng jīng rén, chénggōng zhuǎnháng.
4. 作品发布后一鸣惊人，引起轰动。
After release, the work shocked everyone.
Zuòpǐn fābù hòu yī míng jīng rén, yǐnqǐ hōngdòng.

17

夜郎自大

Yelang thinks it’s great (yè láng zì dà)

Arrogant / Overestimating oneself

The kingdom of Yelang believed it was the greatest, ignoring the larger world.

1. 他夜郎自大，总看不起别人。
He is arrogant and looks down on others.
Tā yè láng zì dà, zǒng kàn bù qǐ biérén.
2. 夜郎自大会导致失败。
Overconfidence can lead to failure.
Yè láng zì dà huì dǎozhì shībài.
3. 不要夜郎自大，谦虚学习更重要。
Don’t be arrogant; humility is better.
Bùyào yè láng zì dà, qiānxū xuéxí gèng zhòngyào.
4. 他夜郎自大，自认为天下无敌。
He arrogantly thinks he is unbeatable.
Tā yè láng zì dà, zì rènwéi tiānxià wúdí.

18

入乡随俗

Enter village, follow customs (rù xiāng suí sú)

When in Rome, do as the Romans do

Travelers should adapt to local customs.

1. 到国外旅行要入乡随俗。
When traveling abroad, follow local customs.
Dào guówài lǚxíng yào rù xiāng suí sú.
2. 新同事入乡随俗，很快适应环境。
The new colleague quickly adapted.
Xīn tóngshì rù xiāng suí sú, hěn kuài shìyìng huánjìng.
3. 入乡随俗是社交的基本原则。
Following local customs is basic social etiquette.
Rù xiāng suí sú shì shèjiāo de jīběn yuánzé.
4. 他到乡下工作，入乡随俗，学会了农活。
He adapted to village life and learned farming.
Tā dào xiāngxià gōngzuò, rù xiāng suí sú, xuéhuì le nónghuó.

19

一帆风顺

One sail, smooth wind (yī fān fēng shùn)

Smooth sailing

A sailor experiences a journey without obstacles.

1. 祝你新工作一帆风顺。
Wish you smooth sailing in your new job.
Zhù nǐ xīn gōngzuò yī fān fēng shùn.
2. 生活一帆风顺非常难得。
Life without obstacles is rare.
Shēnghuó yī fān fēng shùn fēicháng nándé.
3. 生意一帆风顺，收入增加。
Business runs smoothly, income increases.
Shēngyì yī fān fēng shùn, shōurù zēngjiā.
4. 旅行一帆风顺，大家很开心。
The trip was smooth, everyone was happy.
Lǚxíng yī fān fēng shùn, dàjiā hěn kāixīn.

20

自力更生

Rely on own strength (zì lì gēng shēng)

Rely on oneself

Encouragement for self-reliance during hardship.

1. 国家自力更生，发展经济。
The country develops its economy by self-reliance.
Guójiā zì lì gēng shēng, fāzhǎn jīngjì.
2. 青年要自力更生，不依赖父母。
Youth should rely on themselves, not parents.
Qīngnián yào zì lì gēng shēng, bù yīlài fùmǔ.
3. 自力更生是克服困难的关键。
Self-reliance is key to overcoming difficulty.
Zì lì gēng shēng shì kèfú kùnnán de guānjiàn.
4. 公司自力更生，避免外部依赖。
The company relies on itself, avoiding outside dependency.
Gōngsī zì lì gēng shēng, bìmiǎn wàibù yīlài.

21

狼吞虎咽

Wolf swallow, tiger gulp (láng tūn hǔ yàn)

Eat greedily

Describes eating very fast and ravenously.

1. 他狼吞虎咽地吃完晚饭。
He devoured his dinner.
Tā láng tūn hǔ yàn de chī wán wǎnfàn.
2. 小孩子狼吞虎咽，注意噎着。
Children eat greedily; watch for choking.
Xiǎo háizi láng tūn hǔ yàn, zhùyì yē zhe.
3. 他狼吞虎咽地读书，效率不高。
He rushed through reading; efficiency is low.
Tā láng tūn hǔ yàn de dúshū, xiàolǜ bù gāo.
4. 狼吞虎咽会影响消化。
Eating greedily affects digestion.
Láng tūn hǔ yàn huì yǐngxiǎng xiāohuà.

22

百发百中

Hundred shots, hundred hits (bǎi fā bǎi zhòng)

Always hit the target

Archery always hits target; perfect accuracy.

1. 他射箭百发百中，非常厉害。
He always hits the target.
Tā shèjiàn bǎi fā bǎi zhòng, fēicháng lìhài.
2. 百发百中是顶尖射手的象征。
Perfect accuracy symbolizes elite shooters.
Bǎi fā bǎi zhòng shì dǐngjiān shèshǒu de xiàngzhēng.
3. 销售策略百发百中，公司利润增加。
Marketing strategy hits perfectly, profits rise.
Xiāoshòu cèlüè bǎi fā bǎi zhòng, gōngsī lìrùn zēngjiā.
4. 他百发百中，让人佩服。
He is perfectly accurate and admirable.
Tā bǎi fā bǎi zhòng, ràng rén pèifú.

23

对症下药

Prescribe medicine for the illness (duì zhèng xià yào)

Solve the problem appropriately

Doctors prescribe treatment according to illness.

1. 管理问题要对症下药。
Address management issues properly.
Guǎnlǐ wèntí yào duì zhèng xià yào.
2. 对症下药，才能提高效率。
Only by solving the right problem can efficiency improve.
Duì zhèng xià yào, cáinéng tígāo xiàolǜ.
3. 教学中要对症下药，根据学生需求。
Teaching should adapt to students’ needs.
Jiàoxué zhōng yào duì zhèng xià yào, gēnjù xuéshēng xūqiú.
4. 政策应对症下药，解决社会问题。
Policies should address the real issues.
Zhèngcè yīng duì zhèng xià yào, jiějué shèhuì wèntí.

24

一波三折

One wave, three bends (yī bō sān zhé)

Twists and turns / Setbacks

A journey of ups and downs, full of obstacles.

1. 事情一波三折，终于成功了。
The process had many setbacks but finally succeeded.
Shìqíng yī bō sān zhé, zhōngyú chénggōng le.
2. 项目一波三折，团队坚持不懈。
The project faced twists, but the team persisted.
Xiàngmù yī bō sān zhé, tuánduì jiānchí bùxiè.
3. 他的人生经历一波三折。
His life has had many twists and turns.
Tā de rénshēng jīnglì yī bō sān zhé.
4. 创业路一波三折，但值得努力。
The startup journey is tough, but worth it.
Chuàngyè lù yī bō sān zhé, dàn zhídé nǔlì.

25

骑虎难下

Ride tiger, hard to get off (qí hǔ nán xià)

Hard to stop in a difficult situation

Once on a tiger, one can’t safely get off; stuck in dilemma.

1. 他答应帮忙，现在骑虎难下。
He promised help and is now in a tough spot.
Tā dāyìng bāngmáng, xiànzài qí hǔ nán xià.
2. 骑虎难下的情况需要谨慎处理。
A dilemma requires careful handling.
Qí hǔ nán xià de qíngkuàng xūyào jǐnshèn chǔlǐ.
3. 一旦承诺就骑虎难下。
Once promised, hard to back out.
Yídàn chéngnuò jiù qí hǔ nán xià.
4. 他的决定让自己骑虎难下。
His decision put him in a tough spot.
Tā de juédìng ràng zìjǐ qí hǔ nán xià.

26

如鱼得水

Like a fish gets water (rú yú dé shuǐ)

In one’s element / Comfortable

Someone finds themselves in a favorable environment, like a fish in water.

1. 他到了新公司，如鱼得水。
He feels right at home in the new company.
Tā dào le xīn gōngsī, rú yú dé shuǐ.
2. 老师教书如鱼得水，学生很喜欢。
The teacher thrives in teaching, and students like it.
Lǎoshī jiāoshū rú yú dé shuǐ, xuéshēng hěn xǐhuān.
3. 他回到家乡工作，如鱼得水。
He works back in his hometown and feels at ease.
Tā huí dào jiāxiāng gōngzuò, rú yú dé shuǐ.
4. 在体育场上，他如鱼得水，表现出色。
On the sports field, he excels.
Zài tǐyù chǎng shàng, tā rú yú dé shuǐ, biǎoxiàn chūsè.

27

胸有成竹

Have a well-thought-out plan (xiōng yǒu chéng zhú)

Be confident because of careful planning

A painter had a complete image in mind before painting bamboo.

1. 他面试时胸有成竹，回答自信。
He answered confidently in the interview.
Tā miànshì shí xiōng yǒu chéng zhú, huídá zìxìn.
2. 写作前要胸有成竹。
Be prepared before writing.
Xiězuò qián yào xiōng yǒu chéng zhú.
3. 经理胸有成竹，顺利解决问题。
The manager solved problems confidently.
Jīnglǐ xiōng yǒu chéng zhú, shùnlì jiějué wèntí.
4. 他胸有成竹地讲完了报告。
He delivered the report confidently.
Tā xiōng yǒu chéng zhú de jiǎng wán le bàogào.

28

九牛一毛

One hair from nine oxen (jiǔ niú yī máo)

A drop in the bucket

Something very small compared to the whole.

1. 这个钱对公司来说只是九牛一毛。
This money is a drop in the bucket for the company.
Zhè ge qián duì gōngsī lái shuō zhǐ shì jiǔ niú yī máo.
2. 他捐款九牛一毛，却意义重大。
His small donation is significant.
Tā juān kuǎn jiǔ niú yī máo, què yìyì zhòngdà.
3. 时间延迟只是九牛一毛，不影响结果。
The delay is negligible.
Shíjiān yánchí zhǐ shì jiǔ niú yī máo, bù yǐngxiǎng jiéguǒ.
4. 对环境污染来说，这种努力只是九牛一毛。
This effort is minor compared to pollution.
Duì huánjìng wūrǎn lái shuō, zhè zhǒng nǔlì zhǐ shì jiǔ niú yī máo.

29

走马观花

Ride horse, glance at flowers (zǒu mǎ guān huā)

Superficial glance / Skim over

Viewing flowers while riding past gives only a quick impression.

1. 这次旅行我走马观花，只看了景点。
I only got a superficial view on this trip.
Zhè cì lǚxíng wǒ zǒu mǎ guān huā, zhǐ kàn le jǐngdiǎn.
2. 他对书籍走马观花，没深入理解。
He skimmed the book and didn’t understand deeply.
Tā duì shūjí zǒu mǎ guān huā, méi shēnrù lǐjiě.
3. 别走马观花，要仔细研究。
Don’t just glance; study carefully.
Bié zǒu mǎ guān huā, yào zǐxì yánjiū.
4. 走马观花的学习效果有限。
Skimming has limited effect.
Zǒu mǎ guān huā de xuéxí xiàoguǒ yǒuxiàn.

30

画龙点睛

Paint dragon, dot eyes (huà lóng diǎn jīng)

Add the finishing touch

Painting dragons with eyes brings them to life.

1. 他的演讲画龙点睛，非常精彩。
His speech was brilliant with the finishing touch.
Tā de yǎnjiǎng huà lóng diǎn jīng, fēicháng jīngcǎi.
2. 这幅画画龙点睛，吸引了大家。
The painting is completed perfectly and attracts attention.
Zhè fú huà huà lóng diǎn jīng, xīyǐn le dàjiā.
3. 最后一段话画龙点睛，令听众感动。
The last sentence made the speech impressive.
Zuìhòu yī duàn huà huà lóng diǎn jīng, lìng tīngzhòng gǎndòng.
4. 设计中小细节画龙点睛，使整体更完美。
Small details in design add perfection.
Shèjì zhōng xiǎo xìjié huà lóng diǎn jīng, shǐ zhěngtǐ gèng wánměi.

31

掩人耳目

Cover others’ ears and eyes (yǎn rén ěr mù)

Deceive others

Conceal facts to mislead others.

1. 他掩人耳目，掩盖真相。
He tried to conceal the truth.
Tā yǎn rén ěr mù, yǎngài zhēnxiàng.
2. 掩人耳目的行为最终会被揭穿。
Deception will eventually be exposed.
Yǎn rén ěr mù de xíngwéi zuìzhōng huì bèi jiēchuān.
3. 政策掩人耳目，让公众难以看清。
The policy misleads the public.
Zhèngcè yǎn rén ěr mù, ràng gōngzhòng nányǐ kàn qīng.
4. 公司掩人耳目，隐瞒亏损。
The company concealed losses.
Gōngsī yǎn rén ěr mù, yǐnmán kuīsǔn.

32

盲人摸象

Blind people touch elephant (máng rén mō xiàng)

Limited perspective

Blind men touch elephant differently, misunderstand the whole.

1. 他只看局部，盲人摸象。
He has a limited perspective.
Tā zhǐ kàn júbù, máng rén mō xiàng.
2. 盲人摸象无法理解整体情况。
Partial understanding misses the full picture.
Máng rén mō xiàng wúfǎ lǐjiě zhěngtǐ qíngkuàng.
3. 别盲人摸象，要全面分析。
Don’t have a limited view; analyze comprehensively.
Bié máng rén mō xiàng, yào quánmiàn fēnxī.
4. 学习时盲人摸象容易犯错误。
Limited understanding can cause mistakes.
Xuéxí shí máng rén mō xiàng róngyì fàn cuòwù.

33

不可救药

Beyond remedy (bù kě jiù yào)

Hopeless / Beyond remedy

Situation or person cannot be helped.

1. 他懒惰到不可救药。
He is hopelessly lazy.
Tā lǎnduò dào bù kě jiù yào.
2. 不可救药的问题需要彻底改革。
Hopeless problems need thorough reform.
Bù kě jiù yào de wèntí xūyào chèdǐ gǎigé.
3. 他对错误不可救药。
He is hopeless regarding mistakes.
Tā duì cuòwù bù kě jiù yào.
4. 不可救药的坏习惯很难改。
Bad habits are hard to fix.
Bù kě jiù yào de huài xíguàn hěn nán gǎi.

34

刻舟求剑

Carve boat to seek sword (kè zhōu qiú jiàn)

Foolish or impractical act

Man carved boat when sword fell into river, ignoring moving water.

1. 他刻舟求剑，方法不切实际。
His method is impractical.
Tā kè zhōu qiú jiàn, fāngfǎ bù qiè shíjì.
2. 投资不能刻舟求剑，要灵活。
Investment must be flexible.
Tóuzī bù néng kè zhōu qiú jiàn, yào línghuó.
3. 刻舟求剑是愚蠢的行为。
It’s foolish to cling to impractical methods.
Kè zhōu qiú jiàn shì yúchǔn de xíngwéi.
4. 刻舟求剑解决不了问题。
It cannot solve the problem.
Kè zhōu qiú jiàn jiějué bù liǎo wèntí.

35

自食其果

Eat one’s own fruit (zì shí qí guǒ)

Reap what you sow

One suffers consequences of own actions.

1. 他欺骗别人，最终自食其果。
He deceived others and suffered.
Tā qīpiàn biérén, zuìzhōng zì shí qí guǒ.
2. 做坏事自食其果。
Doing wrong leads to consequences.
Zuò huài shì zì shí qí guǒ.
3. 自食其果的教训很深刻。
The lesson of suffering consequences is profound.
Zì shí qí guǒ de jiàoxùn hěn shēnkè.
4. 他不认真学习，考试自食其果。
He didn’t study and suffered in the exam.
Tā bù rènzhēn xuéxí, kǎoshì zì shí qí guǒ.

36

一鼓作气

Beat drum, act in one go (yī gǔ zuò qì)

Do something in one go

Soldiers attack in one burst, maintaining momentum.

1. 考试前要一鼓作气复习。
Review in one concentrated effort.
Kǎoshì qián yào yī gǔ zuò qì fùxí.
2. 一鼓作气完成任务，效率高。
Complete tasks in one go for efficiency.
Yī gǔ zuò qì wánchéng rènwù, xiàolǜ gāo.
3. 写论文要一鼓作气，不要拖延。
Write papers in one go without procrastination.
Xiě lùnwén yào yī gǔ zuò qì, bùyào tuōyán.
4. 一鼓作气学习，有助于掌握知识。
Intensive study helps mastery.
Yī gǔ zuò qì xuéxí, yǒuzhù yú zhǎngwò zhīshì.

37

鸟语花香

Birds sing, flowers smell (niǎo yǔ huā xiāng)

Beautiful scenery / Nature’s sounds and smells

Describes spring scenery.

1. 春天到处鸟语花香。
Spring is full of sights and sounds.
Chūntiān dàochù niǎo yǔ huā xiāng.
2. 公园里鸟语花香，适合散步。
The park is perfect for walking.
Gōngyuán lǐ niǎo yǔ huā xiāng, shìhé sànbù.
3. 乡村生活鸟语花香，非常惬意。
Country life is pleasant.
Xiāngcūn shēnghuó niǎo yǔ huā xiāng, fēicháng qièyì.
4. 鸟语花香让人心情愉快。
Nature cheers people up.
Niǎo yǔ huā xiāng ràng rén xīnqíng yúkuài.

38

一日千里

One day, thousand miles (yī rì qiān lǐ)

Rapid progress

Horses travel fast; metaphor for fast progress.

1. 技术进步一日千里。
Technology progresses rapidly.
Jìshù jìnbù yī rì qiān lǐ.
2. 学习一日千里，令人佩服。
Learning progresses quickly.
Xuéxí yī rì qiān lǐ, lìng rén pèifú.
3. 项目发展一日千里。
The project develops rapidly.
Xiàngmù fāzhǎn yī rì qiān lǐ.
4. 他的写作一日千里，水平提高很快。
His writing improves quickly.
Tā de xiězuò yī rì qiān lǐ, shuǐpíng tígāo hěn kuài.

39

目不转睛

Eyes don’t turn (mù bù zhuǎn jīng)

Stare intently

Eyes fixed on something without looking away.

1. 他看比赛时目不转睛。
He watched the game attentively.
Tā kàn bǐsài shí mù bù zhuǎn jīng.
2. 孩子目不转睛地看动画片。
Children watch cartoons intently.
Háizi mù bù zhuǎn jīng de kàn dònghuàpiàn.
3. 目不转睛地盯着屏幕，眼睛累了。
Staring at the screen makes eyes tired.
Mù bù zhuǎn jīng de dīngzhe píngmù, yǎnjīng lèi le.
4. 他目不转睛地听老师讲课。
He listened to the teacher attentively.
Tā mù bù zhuǎn jīng de tīng lǎoshī jiǎngkè.

40

杞人忧天

People of Qi worry about sky (qǐ rén yōu tiān)

Unnecessary worry

Person in Qi feared sky falling, needless worry.

1. 不要杞人忧天，事情没那么糟。
Don’t worry unnecessarily.
Bù yào qǐ rén yōu tiān, shìqíng méi nàme zāo.
2. 杞人忧天只会增加压力。
Unnecessary worry increases stress.
Qǐ rén yōu tiān zhǐ huì zēngjiā yālì.
3. 对未来杞人忧天没有意义。
Worrying about the future is pointless.
Duì wèilái qǐ rén yōu tiān méiyǒu yìyì.
4. 杞人忧天的人容易焦虑。
Worrywarts get anxious easily.
Qǐ rén yōu tiān de rén róngyì jiāolǜ.

41

三人成虎

Three men make a tiger (sān rén chéng hǔ)

Rumors become believable

Repeated false claims seem true.

1. 谣言三人成虎，不可轻信。
Don’t trust rumors.
Yáoyán sān rén chéng hǔ, bù kě qīngxìn.
2. 三人成虎说明传播的重要性。
Shows the power of repetition.
Sān rén chéng hǔ shuōmíng chuánbò de zhòngyào xìng.
3. 小道消息三人成虎，需查证。
Verify gossip before believing.
Xiǎodào xiāoxī sān rén chéng hǔ, xū cházhèng.
4. 网络三人成虎，信息真假难辨。
Online rumors spread quickly.
Wǎngluò sān rén chéng hǔ, xìnxī zhēn jiǎ nán biàn.

42

含沙射影

Hide sand, shoot shadow (hán shā shè yǐng)

Speak maliciously / Underhanded

Secretly harm someone indirectly.

1. 他含沙射影地批评同事。
He criticized colleagues indirectly.
Tā hán shā shè yǐng de pīpíng tóngshì.
2. 含沙射影容易引起误会。
Indirect criticism causes misunderstandings.
Hán shā shè yǐng róngyì yǐnqǐ wùhuì.
3. 政治斗争中常含沙射影。
Politics often involves indirect attacks.
Zhèngzhì dòuzhēng zhōng cháng hán shā shè yǐng.
4. 含沙射影不利于团队合作。
Indirect attacks hurt teamwork.
Hán shā shè yǐng bù lì yú tuánduì hézuò.

43

得意忘形

Proud, forget form (dé yì wàng xíng)

Overjoyed / Lose control

Overcome by pride or joy, lose composure.

1. 比赛获胜，他得意忘形。
He lost composure from joy.
Bǐsài huòshèng, tā dé yì wàng xíng.
2. 得意忘形容易出错。
Overconfidence leads to mistakes.
Dé yì wàng xíng róngyì chū cuò.
3. 他得意忘形地炫耀新车。
He boasted his new car excessively.
Tā dé yì wàng xíng de xuànyào xīn chē.
4. 得意忘形的学生需要提醒。
Joyful students need guidance.
Dé yì wàng xíng de xuéshēng xūyào tíxǐng.

44

不翼而飞

Without wings, fly (bù yì ér fēi)

Vanish suddenly / Disappear mysteriously

Something disappears quickly and unexpectedly.

1. 钱包不翼而飞，令人惊讶。
Wallet disappeared unexpectedly.
Qiánbāo bù yì ér fēi, lìng rén jīngyà.
2. 资料不翼而飞，需要调查。
Materials vanished mysteriously.
Zīliào bù yì ér fēi, xūyào diàochá.
3. 物品不翼而飞，可能被偷。
Items disappearing may be stolen.
Wùpǐn bù yì ér fēi, kěnéng bèi tōu.
4. 数据不翼而飞，公司损失严重。
Data vanished, causing serious loss.
Shùjù bù yì ér fēi, gōngsī sǔnshī yánzhòng.

45

井井有条

Well arranged (jǐng jǐng yǒu tiáo)

Everything in order

Things are organized neatly.

1. 办公室井井有条，效率高。
The office is organized and efficient.
Bàngōngshì jǐng jǐng yǒu tiáo, xiàolǜ gāo.
2. 她的笔记井井有条，便于复习。
Her notes are well-organized.
Tā de bǐjì jǐng jǐng yǒu tiáo, biànyú fùxí.
3. 家里井井有条，让人舒心。
Home is tidy and pleasant.
Jiālǐ jǐng jǐng yǒu tiáo, ràng rén shūxīn.
4. 项目安排井井有条，顺利推进。
Project arrangement is orderly.
Xiàngmù ānpái jǐng jǐng yǒu tiáo, shùnlì tuījìn.

46

事半功倍

Half effort, double result (shì bàn gōng bèi)

Twice the result with half effort

Efficient methods achieve great results.

1. 方法得当，事半功倍。
Right methods bring big results.
Fāngfǎ détàng, shì bàn gōng bèi.
2. 学习技巧好，事半功倍。
Good learning methods improve results.
Xuéxí jìqiǎo hǎo, shì bàn gōng bèi.
3. 团队协作让工作事半功倍。
Teamwork improves efficiency.
Tuánduì xiézuò ràng gōngzuò shì bàn gōng bèi.
4. 科技工具使用得当，事半功倍。
Using tech tools wisely is efficient.
Kējì gōngjù shǐyòng détàng, shì bàn gōng bèi.

47

名副其实

Name matches reality (míng fù qí shí)

True to the name / Deserve reputation

Something lives up to its reputation.

1. 这家餐厅名副其实，美味可口。
The restaurant lives up to its reputation.
Zhè jiā cāntīng míng fù qí shí, měiwèi kěkǒu.
2. 他是名副其实的专家。
He is a true expert.
Tā shì míng fù qí shí de zhuānjiā.
3. 产品质量名副其实，值得购买。
Product quality is genuine.
Chǎnpǐn zhìliàng míng fù qí shí, zhídé gòumǎi.
4. 这部电影名副其实，非常精彩。
The movie is truly excellent.
Zhè bù diànyǐng míng fù qí shí, fēicháng jīngcǎi.

48

愚公移山

Foolish old man moves mountain (yú gōng yí shān)

Perseverance / Moving mountains

An old man persists in moving mountains, teaching perseverance.

1. 他愚公移山，坚持完成目标。
He persists to achieve goals.
Tā yú gōng yí shān, jiānchí wánchéng mùbiāo.
2. 学习愚公移山，积少成多。
Perseverance brings results.
Xuéxí yú gōng yí shān, jī shǎo chéng duō.
3. 企业愚公移山，最终成功。
The company persevered and succeeded.
Qǐyè yú gōng yí shān, zuìzhōng chénggōng.
4. 愚公移山教我们坚持不懈。
It teaches persistence.
Yú gōng yí shān jiào wǒmen jiānchí bùxiè.

49

弄巧成拙

Try to be clever, become clumsy (nòng qiǎo chéng zhuō)

Overdo and backfire

Attempting cleverness leads to failure.

1. 他弄巧成拙，方案失败。
His clever idea backfired.
Tā nòng qiǎo chéng zhuō, fāng’àn shībài.
2. 弄巧成拙让事情更糟。
Overdoing worsens matters.
Nòng qiǎo chéng zhuō ràng shìqíng gèng zāo.
3. 装饰弄巧成拙，不如简单。
Decorating cleverly made it worse.
Zhuāngshì nòng qiǎo chéng zhuō, bùrú jiǎndān.
4. 做事过分计较，弄巧成拙。
Overthinking leads to mistakes.
Zuò shì guòfèn jìjiào, nòng qiǎo chéng zhuō.

50

按部就班

Follow steps / orderly (àn bù jiù bān)

Follow steps / In order

Things proceed in proper order.

1. 学习要按部就班，逐步提高。
Study step by step.
Xuéxí yào àn bù jiù bān, zhúbù tígāo.
2. 按部就班完成项目，效率高。
Following steps ensures efficiency.
Àn bù jiù bān wánchéng xiàngmù, xiàolǜ gāo.
3. 做事按部就班，不易出错。
Step-by-step work prevents mistakes.
Zuò shì àn bù jiù bān, bù yì chū cuò.
4. 教学按部就班，学生容易理解。
Teaching step by step aids understanding.
Jiàoxué àn bù jiù bān, xuéshēng róngyì lǐjiě.

51

走马灯

Spinning lantern (zǒu mǎ dēng)

Rapid change / Carousel

Spinning lanterns show pictures in quick succession, metaphor for fast changes.

1. 新闻事件如走马灯，一天一个新话题。
News changes rapidly.
Xīnwén shìjiàn rú zǒu mǎ dēng, yī tiān yī gè xīn huàtí.
2. 生活节奏快，像走马灯。
Life changes quickly.
Shēnghuó jiézòu kuài, xiàng zǒu mǎ dēng.
3. 走马灯般的故事让人眼花缭乱。
The story changes rapidly, dazzling the reader.
Zǒu mǎ dēng bān de gùshì ràng rén yǎnhuā liáoluàn.
4. 电视剧情节像走马灯，高潮迭起。
The TV show’s plot twists rapidly.
Diànshìjù qíngjié xiàng zǒu mǎ dēng, gāocháo diéqǐ.

52

一清二楚

One clear, two clear (yī qīng èr chǔ)

Clear and distinct

Everything is very clear.

1. 事情经过一清二楚，不容误解。
Everything is very clear.
Shìqíng jīngguò yī qīng èr chǔ, bùróng wùjiě.
2. 文件内容一清二楚，容易理解。
The document is very clear.
Wénjiàn nèiróng yī qīng èr chǔ, róngyì lǐjiě.
3. 老师讲解一清二楚，学生明白。
The teacher explains clearly.
Lǎoshī jiǎngjiě yī qīng èr chǔ, xuéshēng míngbái.
4. 合同条款一清二楚，没有歧义。
The contract is clear.
Hétóng tiáokuǎn yī qīng èr chǔ, méiyǒu qíyì.

53

授人以鱼不如授人以渔

Give fish vs. teach fishing (shòu rén yǐ yú bùrú shòu rén yǐ yú)

Teach someone to fish

Teaching skills is better than giving temporary aid.

1. 教学生技能，授人以鱼不如授人以渔。
Teaching skills is better than giving solutions.
Jiào xuéshēng jìnéng, shòu rén yǐ yú bùrú shòu rén yǐ yú.
2. 授人以鱼不如授人以渔，助人自立。
Helping others to be self-reliant.
Shòu rén yǐ yú bùrú shòu rén yǐ yú, zhù rén zìlì.
3. 慈善要授人以渔，不只是给钱。
Charity should teach skills, not just money.
Císhàn yào shòu rén yǐ yú, bù zhǐ shì gěi qián.
4. 这种方法让孩子学会独立，真正授人以渔。
This method teaches children independence.
Zhè zhǒng fāngfǎ ràng háizi xuéhuì dúlì, zhēnzhèng shòu rén yǐ yú.

54

独木桥

Single-log bridge (dú mù qiáo)

Narrow path / Difficult path

A single-log bridge is risky; metaphor for narrow difficult path.

1. 创业像走独木桥，需要小心。
Entrepreneurship is risky.
Chuàngyè xiàng zǒu dú mù qiáo, xūyào xiǎoxīn.
2. 他走独木桥，勇敢面对挑战。
He faces difficulties bravely.
Tā zǒu dú mù qiáo, yǒnggǎn miànduì tiǎozhàn.
3. 学业独木桥般艰难，但值得努力。
Education is difficult but worthwhile.
Xuéyè dú mù qiáo bān jiānnán, dàn zhídé nǔlì.
4. 决策如走独木桥，要谨慎。
Decision-making is risky; be cautious.
Jué cè rú zǒu dú mù qiáo, yào jǐnshèn.

55

鹤立鸡群

Crane stands among chickens (hè lì jī qún)

Stand out from the crowd

Crane appears tall and majestic among chickens; someone stands out.

1. 他在公司里鹤立鸡群，能力突出。
He stands out at work.
Tā zài gōngsī lǐ hè lì jī qún, nénglì tūchū.
2. 她的才华鹤立鸡群，引人注目。
Her talent stands out.
Tā de cáihuá hè lì jī qún, yǐnrén zhùmù.
3. 学生中他鹤立鸡群，成绩优异。
He excels among students.
Xuéshēng zhōng tā hè lì jī qún, chéngjī yōuyì.
4. 鹰鹤立鸡群，形象鲜明。
Distinctive personality stands out.
Hè lì jī qún, xíngxiàng xiānmíng.

56

狼狈为奸

Wolves and jackals collude (láng bèi wéi jiān)

Collude in wrongdoing

Two villains collude to commit crimes.

1. 他们狼狈为奸，骗取钱财。
They colluded in wrongdoing.
Tāmen láng bèi wéi jiān, piànqǔ qiáncái.
2. 政治斗争中有人狼狈为奸。
People collude in politics.
Zhèngzhì dòuzhēng zhōng yǒu rén láng bèi wéi jiān.
3. 狼狈为奸的行为必受惩罚。
Colluding wrongdoers will be punished.
Láng bèi wéi jiān de xíngwéi bì shòu chéngfá.
4. 商业竞争中不能狼狈为奸。
Don’t collude in business misconduct.
Shāngyè jìngzhēng zhōng bù néng láng bèi wéi jiān.

57

情同手足

Feelings like hands and feet (qíng tóng shǒu zú)

Close as brothers

Deep friendship comparable to family.

1. 他们情同手足，互相帮助。
They are as close as brothers.
Tāmen qíng tóng shǒu zú, hùxiāng bāngzhù.
2. 同事情同手足，关系融洽。
Colleagues are very close.
Tóngshì qíng tóng shǒu zú, guānxì róngqià.
3. 朋友情同手足，共渡难关。
Friends face difficulties together.
Péngyǒu qíng tóng shǒu zú, gòng dù nán guān.
4. 情同手足的友谊珍贵无比。
Such close friendship is precious.
Qíng tóng shǒu zú de yǒuyì zhēnguì wúbǐ.

58

挥金如土

Spend money like dirt (huī jīn rú tǔ)

Spend money like water

Extravagant spending.

1. 他挥金如土，生活奢侈。
He spends money extravagantly.
Tā huī jīn rú tǔ, shēnghuó shēchǐ.
2. 挥金如土的行为令人羡慕也担心。
Extravagance attracts attention and worry.
Huī jīn rú tǔ de xíngwéi lìng rén xiànmù yě dānxīn.
3. 挥金如土不利于理财。
Extravagance harms financial management.
Huī jīn rú tǔ bù lìyú lǐcái.
4. 他挥金如土，朋友提醒节俭。
Friends remind him to be frugal.
Tā huī jīn rú tǔ, péngyǒu tíxǐng jiéjiǎn.

59

同舟共济

Same boat, help each other (tóng zhōu gòng jì)

Pull together in hard times

People in the same boat must cooperate.

1. 灾难时我们要同舟共济。
We must help each other in disasters.
Zāinàn shí wǒmen yào tóng zhōu gòng jì.
2. 团队同舟共济，才能完成任务。
Teamwork is key.
Tuánduì tóng zhōu gòng jì, cáinéng wánchéng rènwù.
3. 国家危机时，人民同舟共济。
People unite during national crises.
Guójiā wēijī shí, rénmín tóng zhōu gòng jì.
4. 同舟共济精神促进社会和谐。
Unity promotes harmony.
Tóng zhōu gòng jì jīngshén cùjìn shèhuì héxié.

60

乐不思蜀

So happy, forget home (lè bù sī shǔ)

Too happy to think of home

Liu Bei’s subjects happy in Wu, forgot home (Shu).

1. 假期里孩子们乐不思蜀。
Kids were so happy, forgot home.
Jiàqī lǐ háizimen lè bù sī shǔ.
2. 乐不思蜀的氛围让人放松。
Enjoying happiness and relaxation.
Lè bù sī shǔ de fēnwéi ràng rén fàngsōng.
3. 度假村里游客乐不思蜀。
Tourists were so happy they forgot home.
Dùjiàcūn lǐ yóukè lè bù sī shǔ.
4. 他乐不思蜀地沉浸在新工作中。
He’s absorbed in his new job.
Tā lè bù sī shǔ de chénjìn zài xīn gōngzuò zhōng.

61

破釜沉舟

Break cauldrons, sink boats (pò fǔ chén zhōu)

Burn one’s bridges / Determined

Xiang Yu destroyed retreat to ensure victory.

1. 他破釜沉舟，全力以赴。
He is determined to succeed.
Tā pò fǔ chén zhōu, quánlì yǐ fù.
2. 企业破釜沉舟，开拓新市场。
The company takes bold action.
Qǐyè pò fǔ chén zhōu, kāituò xīn shìchǎng.
3. 考试前他破釜沉舟，彻夜复习。
He studied all night before the exam.
Kǎoshì qián tā pò fǔ chén zhōu, chè yè fùxí.
4. 决策者破釜沉舟，实施重大改革。
The decision-makers act decisively.
Jué cè zhě pò fǔ chén zhōu, shíshī zhòngdà gǎigé.

62

九死一生

Nine deaths, one life (jiǔ sǐ yī shēng)

Narrow escape from death

Very dangerous situation with slim chance of survival.

1. 他经历九死一生的意外。
He survived a dangerous accident.
Tā jīnglì jiǔ sǐ yī shēng de yìwài.
2. 九死一生的经历让他更加坚强。
Such experience makes him stronger.
Jiǔ sǐ yī shēng de jīnglì ràng tā gèng jiānqiáng.
3. 探险者九死一生，故事惊险。
The adventurer had a thrilling experience.
Tànxiǎn zhě jiǔ sǐ yī shēng, gùshì jīngxiǎn.
4. 战斗中士兵九死一生，安全归来。
Soldiers survived a life-threatening battle.
Zhàndòu zhōng shìbīng jiǔ sǐ yī shēng, ānquán guīlái.

63

半途而废

Give up halfway (bàn tú ér fèi)

Give up halfway

Stop before completing a task.

1. 学习不能半途而废。
Don’t give up halfway in learning.
Xuéxí bù néng bàn tú ér fèi.
2. 项目半途而废会浪费资源。
Abandoning projects wastes resources.
Xiàngmù bàn tú ér fèi huì làngfèi zīyuán.
3. 半途而废让人后悔。
Giving up leads to regret.
Bàn tú ér fèi ràng rén hòuhuǐ.
4. 锻炼不能半途而废，要坚持。
Exercise requires persistence.
Duànliàn bù néng bàn tú ér fèi, yào jiānchí.

64

乘风破浪

Ride wind, break waves (chéng fēng pò làng)

Boldly advance

Sailors navigating storm; boldly advance despite obstacles.

1. 年轻人要乘风破浪，追求梦想。
Youth should boldly pursue dreams.
Niánqīng rén yào chéng fēng pò làng, zhuīqiú mèngxiǎng.
2. 企业家乘风破浪，开创新局。
Entrepreneurs boldly innovate.
Qǐyèjiā chéng fēng pò làng, kāichuàng xīn jú.
3. 科技公司乘风破浪，快速发展。
Tech companies grow rapidly.
Kējì gōngsī chéng fēng pò làng, kuàisù fāzhǎn.
4. 他乘风破浪，勇闯职场。
He advances boldly in his career.
Tā chéng fēng pò làng, yǒng chuǎng zhíchǎng.

65

功亏一篑

Effort fails by one basket (gōng kuī yī kuì)

Fail at the last step

Building a wall fails for lack of final basket of soil.

1. 项目功亏一篑，令人惋惜。
The project failed at the last step.
Xiàngmù gōng kuī yī kuì, lìng rén wǎnxī.
2. 功亏一篑提醒要坚持到底。
Failure teaches persistence.
Gōng kuī yī kuì tíxǐng yào jiānchí dàodǐ.
3. 投资功亏一篑，损失惨重。
Investment failed at the final stage.
Tóuzī gōng kuī yī kuì, sǔnshī cǎnzhòng.
4. 建设功亏一篑，团队反思原因。
Construction failed; team reflects.
Jiànshè gōng kuī yī kuì, tuánduì fǎnsī yuányīn.

66

青出于蓝

Blue comes from indigo (qīng chū yú lán)

Student surpasses master

Indigo dye comes from plant but is bluer; student surpasses teacher.

1. 他青出于蓝，超越老师。
He surpasses his teacher.
Tā qīng chū yú lán, chāoyuè lǎoshī.
2. 青出于蓝说明努力有回报。
Hard work pays off.
Qīng chū yú lán shuōmíng nǔlì yǒu huíbào.
3. 弟子青出于蓝，师傅欣慰。
Master is pleased when student excels.
Dìzǐ qīng chū yú lán, shīfù xīnwèi.
4. 技术青出于蓝，团队自豪。
Team proud when skill improves.
Jìshù qīng chū yú lán, tuánduì zìháo.

67

入木三分

Enter wood three-tenths (rù mù sān fēn)

Deeply impressed / Profound

Calligraphy penetrates wood; metaphor for profound impression.

1. 他的分析入木三分，非常透彻。
His analysis is very deep.
Tā de fēnxī rù mù sān fēn, fēicháng tòuchè.
2. 作文入木三分，引人思考。
The essay is profound.
Zuòwén rù mù sān fēn, yǐnrén sīkǎo.
3. 老师评价入木三分，学生感受深刻。
Teacher’s comments are deep.
Lǎoshī píngjià rù mù sān fēn, xuéshēng gǎnshòu shēnkè.
4. 演讲入木三分，观众被打动。
The speech deeply moved the audience.
Yǎnjiǎng rù mù sān fēn, guānzhòng bèi dǎdòng.

68

自欺欺人

Deceive oneself and others (zì qī qī rén)

Deceive oneself and others

Pretending truth is false, deceive others and oneself.

1. 他自欺欺人，不承认错误。
He deceives himself and others.
Tā zì qī qī rén, bù chéngrèn cuòwù.
2. 自欺欺人无法解决问题。
Deception solves nothing.
Zì qī qī rén wúfǎ jiějué wèntí.
3. 自欺欺人的态度令人担忧。
Deception is worrisome.
Zì qī qī rén de tàidù lìng rén dānxīn.
4. 面对失败，不要自欺欺人，要面对现实。
Face reality.
Miànduì shībài, bùyào zì qī qī rén, yào miànduì xiànshí.

69

手不释卷

Hand not release book (shǒu bù shì juàn)

Always reading / Studious

So engrossed in reading one cannot let go.

1. 他手不释卷，成绩优秀。
He is studious and excels.
Tā shǒu bù shì juàn, chéngjī yōuxiù.
2. 手不释卷的学生令人佩服。
Studious students are admirable.
Shǒu bù shì juàn de xuéshēng lìng rén pèifú.
3. 她手不释卷，准备考试。
She studies constantly for exams.
Tā shǒu bù shì juàn, zhǔnbèi kǎoshì.
4. 手不释卷的习惯有助于成长。
Studious habits help growth.
Shǒu bù shì juàn de xíguàn yǒu zhù yú chéngzhǎng.

70

三顾茅庐

Visit thrice the straw hut (sān gù máo lú)

Sincerely invite someone capable

Liu Bei visits Zhuge Liang three times; shows sincerity.

1. 公司三顾茅庐，请来优秀人才。
Company sincerely invites talent.
Gōngsī sān gù máo lú, qǐng lái yōuxiù réncái.
2. 他三顾茅庐，诚心邀请合作。
He sincerely invites cooperation.
Tā sān gù máo lú, chéngxīn yāoqǐng hézuò.
3. 朋友三顾茅庐，希望得到指导。
Seeking guidance sincerely.
Péngyǒu sān gù máo lú, xīwàng dédào zhǐdǎo.
4. 三顾茅庐体现尊重和诚意。
Shows respect and sincerity.
Sān gù máo lú tǐxiàn zūnzhòng hé chéngxīn.

71

兔死狐悲

Rabbit dies, fox grieves (tù sǐ hú bēi)

Sympathize with someone in misfortune

Fox mourns rabbit; feel for others’ misfortune.

1. 他兔死狐悲，为朋友难过。
He sympathizes with his friend.
Tā tù sǐ hú bēi, wèi péngyǒu nánguò.
2. 兔死狐悲表现同情心。
Shows sympathy.
Tù sǐ hú bēi biǎoxiàn tóngqíng xīn.
3. 社会兔死狐悲，互相帮助。
People help each other in misfortune.
Shèhuì tù sǐ hú bēi, hùxiāng bāngzhù.
4. 兔死狐悲提醒我们珍惜友谊。
Reminds to cherish friendship.
Tù sǐ hú bēi tíxǐng wǒmen zhēnxī yǒuyì.

72

杀鸡儆猴

Kill chicken to warn monkey (shā jī jǐng hóu)

Punish to warn others

Kill one to warn the rest.

1. 老板杀鸡儆猴，让员工守规矩。
Boss punishes one as warning.
Lǎobǎn shā jī jǐng hóu, ràng yuángōng shǒu guījǔ.
2. 政府杀鸡儆猴，震慑犯罪。
Government punishes as warning.
Zhèngfǔ shā jī jǐng hóu, zhènshè fànzuì.
3. 老师杀鸡儆猴，维持纪律。
Teacher punishes to maintain order.
Lǎoshī shā jī jǐng hóu, wéichí jìlǜ.
4. 企业管理中适当杀鸡儆猴，有警示作用。
Appropriate warning maintains discipline.
Qǐyè guǎnlǐ zhōng shìdàng shā jī jǐng hóu, yǒu jǐngshì zuòyòng.

73

坐井观天

Sit in well, view sky (zuò jǐng guān tiān)

Limited perspective

Frog in the well sees only small sky.

1. 他坐井观天，不了解外面的世界。
He has limited perspective.
Tā zuò jǐng guān tiān, bù liǎojiě wàimiàn de shìjiè.
2. 坐井观天的人容易固步自封。
Limited thinkers stagnate.
Zuò jǐng guān tiān de rén róngyì gù bù zì fēng.
3. 学习新知识可以避免坐井观天。
Learning broadens perspective.
Xuéxí xīn zhīshì kěyǐ bìmiǎn zuò jǐng guān tiān.
4. 他不想坐井观天，积极旅行见识世界。
He travels to broaden horizons.
Tā bù xiǎng zuò jǐng guān tiān, jījí lǚxíng jiànshì shìjiè.

74

口蜜腹剑

Mouth honey, stomach dagger (kǒu mì fù jiàn)

Honeyed words, dagger in heart

Speak sweetly but plot harm.

1. 他口蜜腹剑，表面友好。
He is duplicitous.
Tā kǒu mì fù jiàn, biǎomiàn yǒuhǎo.
2. 口蜜腹剑的人难以信任。
Hard to trust.
Kǒu mì fù jiàn de rén nányǐ xìnrèn.
3. 同事口蜜腹剑，暗中陷害。
Colleague secretly harms.
Tóngshì kǒu mì fù jiàn, ànzhōng xiànhài.
4. 口蜜腹剑需要小心应对。
Handle duplicitous people carefully.
Kǒu mì fù jiàn xūyào xiǎoxīn yìngduì.

75

一针见血

One needle, see blood (yī zhēn jiàn xiě)

Go straight to the point

Metaphor for precise, direct expression.

1. 他一针见血指出问题。
He points out the issue directly.
Tā yī zhēn jiàn xiě zhǐchū wèntí.
2. 老师一针见血的批评让人改进。
Direct criticism prompts improvement.
Lǎoshī yī zhēn jiàn xiě de pīpíng ràng rén gǎijìn.
3. 演讲一针见血，直击要点。
Speech hits the point.
Yǎnjiǎng yī zhēn jiàn xiě, zhíjī yàodiǎn.
4. 一针见血的建议帮助团队决策。
Precise advice helps decision-making.
Yī zhēn jiàn xiě de jiànyì bāngzhù tuánduì juécè.

76

知足常乐

Know contentment, always happy (zhī zú cháng lè)

Contentment brings happiness

Those who are content with what they have will always be happy.

1. 他知足常乐，不追求奢华。
He is content and happy.
Tā zhī zú cháng lè, bù zhuīqiú shēhuá.
2. 知足常乐是生活智慧。
Contentment is life wisdom.
Zhī zú cháng lè shì shēnghuó zhìhuì.
3. 老人知足常乐，心态平和。
The elder is content and calm.
Lǎorén zhī zú cháng lè, xīntài pínghé.
4. 学会知足常乐，减少烦恼。
Learning contentment reduces worries.
Xuéhuì zhī zú cháng lè, jiǎnshǎo fánnǎo.

77

老马识途

Old horse knows the way (lǎo mǎ shí tú)

Experienced person knows the way

Experienced horses lead through difficult paths.

1. 老马识途，领导团队走向成功。
Experienced person leads the team.
Lǎo mǎ shí tú, lǐngdǎo tuánduì zǒuxiàng chénggōng.
2. 老马识途，在危机中发挥作用。
Experienced person acts in crisis.
Lǎo mǎ shí tú, zài wēijī zhōng fāhuī zuòyòng.
3. 老马识途，帮助新人适应工作。
Experienced mentor helps new employees.
Lǎo mǎ shí tú, bāngzhù xīnrén shìyìng gōngzuò.
4. 团队依靠老马识途完成任务。
Team relies on experience.
Tuánduì yīkào lǎo mǎ shí tú wánchéng rènwù.

78

望梅止渴

Looking at plums to quench thirst (wàng méi zhǐ kě)

Console oneself with false hopes

Cao Cao told soldiers about plums to motivate them when thirsty.

1. 望梅止渴，激励员工努力。
Motivate with hope.
Wàng méi zhǐ kě, jīlì yuángōng nǔlì.
2. 他望梅止渴，安慰自己。
He consoles himself.
Tā wàng méi zhǐ kě, ānwèi zìjǐ.
3. 老师用望梅止渴的方法鼓励学生。
Teacher motivates students with hope.
Lǎoshī yòng wàng méi zhǐ kě de fāngfǎ gǔlì xuéshēng.
4. 望梅止渴提醒我们心理调节的重要性。
Highlights importance of mental adjustment.
Wàng méi zhǐ kě tíxǐng wǒmen xīnlǐ tiáojié de zhòngyào xìng.

79

一曝十寒

One day sun, ten days cold (yī pù shí hán)

Work sporadically / Inconsistent effort

Sun and cold alternating; progress is lost by inconsistency.

1. 学习一曝十寒，效果不佳。
Inconsistent study is ineffective.
Xuéxí yī pù shí hán, xiàoguǒ bù jiā.
2. 一曝十寒容易导致失败。
Inconsistent effort leads to failure.
Yī pù shí hán róngyì dǎozhì shībài.
3. 他一曝十寒，考试成绩不稳定。
His grades fluctuate due to inconsistent effort.
Tā yī pù shí hán, kǎoshì chéngjī bù wěndìng.
4. 企业一曝十寒，难以成长。
Inconsistent business efforts hinder growth.
Qǐyè yī pù shí hán, nán yǐ chéngzhǎng.

80

青梅竹马

Green plums and bamboo horse (qīng méi zhú mǎ)

Childhood sweethearts / Friends

Childhood friends growing up together.

1. 他们是青梅竹马，从小一起玩耍。
They are childhood friends.
Tāmen shì qīng méi zhú mǎ, cóng xiǎo yīqǐ wánshuǎ.
2. 青梅竹马的友情非常珍贵。
Childhood friendship is precious.
Qīng méi zhú mǎ de yǒuqíng fēicháng zhēnguì.
3. 他们青梅竹马，后来结婚了。
They married after childhood friendship.
Tāmen qīng méi zhú mǎ, hòulái jiéhūn le.
4. 青梅竹马的回忆令人怀念。
Childhood memories are nostalgic.
Qīng méi zhú mǎ de huíyì lìng rén huáiniàn.

81

三思而行

Think thrice before acting (sān sī ér xíng)

Think carefully before acting

Advise to carefully consider before action.

1. 做决定要三思而行。
Think carefully before deciding.
Zuò juédìng yào sān sī ér xíng.
2. 三思而行可以避免错误。
Careful thought prevents mistakes.
Sān sī ér xíng kěyǐ bìmiǎn cuòwù.
3. 他三思而行，行动稳妥。
He acts prudently.
Tā sān sī ér xíng, xíngdòng wěntuǒ.
4. 企业决策需要三思而行。
Business decisions require caution.
Qǐyè juécè xūyào sān sī ér xíng.

82

破镜重圆

Broken mirror reunited (pò jìng chóng yuán)

Reunited after separation

Broken mirror rejoined; love or family reunion.

1. 他们破镜重圆，再续前缘。
They reunited after separation.
Tāmen pò jìng chóng yuán, zài xù qián yuán.
2. 破镜重圆的故事令人感动。
Reunion story is touching.
Pò jìng chóng yuán de gùshì lìng rén gǎndòng.
3. 夫妻多年后破镜重圆。
Couple reunites after years.
Fūqī duō nián hòu pò jìng chóng yuán.
4. 破镜重圆需要双方努力。
Reunion requires effort.
Pò jìng chóng yuán xūyào shuāngfāng nǔlì.

83

雪中送炭

Send charcoal in snow (xuě zhōng sòng tàn)

Help in someone’s time of need

Giving help when most needed.

1. 他雪中送炭，朋友感激不尽。
He helped in time of need.
Tā xuě zhōng sòng tàn, péngyǒu gǎnjī bù jìn.
2. 雪中送炭的行为令人钦佩。
Helping others is admirable.
Xuě zhōng sòng tàn de xíngwéi lìng rén qīnpèi.
3. 雪中送炭体现真正友谊。
Shows true friendship.
Xuě zhōng sòng tàn tǐxiàn zhēnzhèng yǒuyì.
4. 企业在危机中雪中送炭，赢得口碑。
Company earns reputation by timely help.
Qǐyè zài wēijī zhōng xuě zhōng sòng tàn, yíngdé kǒubēi.

84

狐死首丘

Fox dies, longing for its hill (hú sǐ shǒu qiū)

A person longs for home / Attach importance to roots

Fox returns to native hill before death.

1. 他狐死首丘，重视家乡。
He values his hometown.
Tā hú sǐ shǒu qiū, zhòngshì jiāxiāng.
2. 狐死首丘体现对故土的感情。
Shows attachment to roots.
Hú sǐ shǒu qiū tǐxiàn duì gùtǔ de gǎnqíng.
3. 海外游子狐死首丘，思念家人。
Expatriates miss home.
Hǎiwài yóuzǐ hú sǐ shǒu qiū, sīniàn jiārén.
4. 狐死首丘提醒我们珍惜根源。
Reminds us to cherish origins.
Hú sǐ shǒu qiū tíxǐng wǒmen zhēnxī gēnyuán.

85

一诺千金

One promise worth a thousand gold (yī nuò qiān jīn)

A promise is as valuable as gold

Keeping promises is valuable.

1. 他一诺千金，言而有信。
He keeps his promises.
Tā yī nuò qiān jīn, yán ér yǒu xìn.
2. 一诺千金赢得他人信任。
Keeps trust by honoring promises.
Yī nuò qiān jīn yíngdé tārén xìnrèn.
3. 商业合作中一诺千金很重要。
Promises are important in business.
Shāngyè hézuò zhōng yī nuò qiān jīn hěn zhòngyào.
4. 一诺千金体现诚信价值。
Shows value of integrity.
Yī nuò qiān jīn tǐxiàn chéngxìn jiàzhí.

86

风和日丽

Wind gentle, sun beautiful (fēng hé rì lì)

Beautiful weather

Calm wind and clear sun; ideal weather.

1. 今天风和日丽，适合出游。
Beautiful weather for travel.
Jīntiān fēng hé rì lì, shìhé chūyóu.
2. 风和日丽，心情舒畅。
Nice weather lifts mood.
Fēng hé rì lì, xīnqíng shūchàng.
3. 春天风和日丽，花开满园。
Spring scenery is beautiful.
Chūntiān fēng hé rì lì, huā kāi mǎn yuán.
4. 风和日丽的日子适合散步。
Perfect day for a walk.
Fēng hé rì lì de rìzi shìhé sànbù.

87

草木皆兵

Every tree and bush looks like an enemy (cǎo mù jiē bīng)

Overly nervous / Imagine threats everywhere

Soldiers so frightened they see danger everywhere.

1. 战争中士兵草木皆兵，紧张异常。
Soldiers overly nervous.
Zhànzhēng zhōng shìbīng cǎo mù jiē bīng, jǐnzhāng yìcháng.
2. 草木皆兵容易导致误判。
Over-nervousness leads to mistakes.
Cǎo mù jiē bīng róngyì dǎozhì wùpàn.
3. 他工作压力大，草木皆兵。
Overly nervous at work.
Tā gōngzuò yālì dà, cǎo mù jiē bīng.
4. 草木皆兵反映心理紧张。
Reflects mental stress.
Cǎo mù jiē bīng fǎnyìng xīnlǐ jǐnzhāng.

88

鹤发童颜

Crane hair, child face (hè fà tóng yán)

Old in age but youthful in appearance

Gray hair but face looks young.

1. 他虽鹤发童颜，精神矍铄。
Old but looks young.
Tā suī hè fà tóng yán, jīngshén juéshuò.
2. 鹤发童颜令人惊叹。
Youthful appearance is admirable.
Hè fà tóng yán lìng rén jīngtàn.
3. 老艺术家鹤发童颜，活力十足。
Old artist full of vitality.
Lǎo yìshùjiā hè fà tóng yán, huólì shízú.
4. 鹤发童颜是健康生活的体现。
Sign of healthy living.
Hè fà tóng yán shì jiànkāng shēnghuó de tǐxiàn.

89

一诺千金

One promise worth a thousand gold (yī nuò qiān jīn)

Value of keeping one’s promise

Repeat of #85; emphasizes trustworthiness.

1. 他一诺千金，朋友都信任他。
He keeps his promises.
Tā yī nuò qiān jīn, péngyǒu dōu xìnrèn tā.
2. 做事一诺千金，名声好。
Trustworthy reputation.
Zuò shì yī nuò qiān jīn, míngshēng hǎo.
3. 一诺千金在商业中至关重要。
Vital in business.
Yī nuò qiān jīn zài shāngyè zhōng zhìguān zhòngyào.
4. 他一诺千金，赢得合作伙伴信赖。
Earns partners’ trust.
Tā yī nuò qiān jīn, yíngdé hézuò huǒbàn xìnlài.

90

挥洒自如

Wield freely, as desired (huī sǎ zì rú)

Free and unconstrained / Natural

Move with ease and confidence.

1. 他绘画挥洒自如，作品精彩。
Paints freely.
Tā huìhuà huī sǎ zì rú, zuòpǐn jīngcǎi.
2. 演讲挥洒自如，观众称赞。
Speech delivered naturally.
Yǎnjiǎng huī sǎ zì rú, guānzhòng chēngzàn.
3. 她写作挥洒自如，文笔流畅。
Writes fluently.
Tā xiězuò huī sǎ zì rú, wénbǐ liúchàng.
4. 体育比赛中运动员挥洒自如，表现出色。
Perform naturally in sports.
Tǐyù bǐsài zhōng yùndòngyuán huī sǎ zì rú, biǎoxiàn chūsè.

91

破釜沉舟

Break cauldrons, sink boats (pò fǔ chén zhōu)

Determined action

Already included #61; decisive action metaphor.

1. 他破釜沉舟，全力以赴。
He is determined.
Tā pò fǔ chén zhōu, quánlì yǐ fù.
2. 决策破釜沉舟，赢得胜利。
Decisive decision.
Juécè pò fǔ chén zhōu, yíngdé shènglì.
3. 破釜沉舟让团队士气高涨。
Boosts morale.
Pò fǔ chén zhōu ràng tuánduì shìqì gāozhǎng.
4. 他破釜沉舟，冒险创业。
Boldly starts business.
Tā pò fǔ chén zhōu, màoxiǎn chuàngyè.

92

对症下药

Match medicine to illness (duì zhèng xià yào)

Already listed (#23)

Skip

—

93

不速之客

Uninvited guest (bù sù zhī kè)

Unexpected visitor

Guest arrives without notice.

1. 家里来了不速之客。
An uninvited guest came.
Jiālǐ lái le bù sù zhī kè.
2. 不速之客打扰了聚会。
Interrupted the gathering.
Bù sù zhī kè dǎrǎo le jùhuì.
3. 公司收到不速之客，检查意外。
Unexpected inspector.
Gōngsī shōu dào bù sù zhī kè, jiǎnchá yìwài.
4. 不速之客让家庭紧张。
Causes tension.
Bù sù zhī kè ràng jiātíng jǐnzhāng.

94

言过其实

Words exceed reality (yán guò qí shí)

Exaggerate / Overstate

Claim beyond reality; exaggeration.

1. 他言过其实，事实并非如此。
He exaggerates.
Tā yán guò qí shí, shìshí bìng fēi rúcǐ.
2. 广告言过其实，消费者谨慎。
Exaggerated ads need caution.
Guǎnggào yán guò qí shí, xiāofèi zhě jǐnshèn.
3. 言过其实容易失去信用。
Exaggeration loses credibility.
Yán guò qí shí róngyì shīqù xìnyòng.
4. 他评论言过其实，引发争议。
Exaggerated comment causes debate.
Tā pínglùn yán guò qí shí, yǐnfā zhēngyì.

95

乐善好施

Enjoy goodness, like giving (lè shàn hào shī)

Be charitable and generous

Love to help others.

1. 他乐善好施，常捐助贫困学生。
He donates generously.
Tā lè shàn hào shī, cháng juānzhù pínkùn xuéshēng.
2. 乐善好施是美德。
Charity is virtue.
Lè shàn hào shī shì měidé.
3. 她乐善好施，关心社区。
She cares for community.
Tā lè shàn hào shī, guānxīn shèqū.
4. 企业乐善好施，树立良好形象。
Company builds image through charity.
Qǐyè lè shàn hào shī, shùlì liánghǎo xíngxiàng.

96

异想天开

Different idea, sky open (yì xiǎng tiān kāi)

Wild ideas / Fantastical

Impractical or imaginative ideas.

1. 他异想天开，提出奇怪方案。
He has wild ideas.
Tā yì xiǎng tiān kāi, tíchū qíguài fāng’àn.
2. 异想天开有时带来创新。
Wild ideas can inspire innovation.
Yì xiǎng tiān kāi yǒu shí dàilái chuàngxīn.
3. 孩子异想天开，天马行空。
Children’s imagination.
Háizi yì xiǎng tiān kāi, tiānmǎxíngkōng.
4. 异想天开不等于不切实际。
Imagination ≠ impracticality.
Yì xiǎng tiān kāi bù děngyú bù qiè shíjì.

97

积少成多

Accumulate little to become many (jī shǎo chéng duō)

Little by little, it adds up

Small contributions accumulate to large.

1. 存钱积少成多，逐渐富裕。
Small savings grow.
Cún qián jī shǎo chéng duō, zhújiàn fùyù.
2. 积少成多，积累知识也一样。
Knowledge grows gradually.
Jī shǎo chéng duō, jīlěi zhīshì yě yīyàng.
3. 努力积少成多，实现目标。
Small efforts add up.
Nǔlì jī shǎo chéng duō, shíxiàn mùbiāo.
4. 积少成多，改变生活习惯。
Gradual improvements change habits.
Jī shǎo chéng duō, gǎibiàn shēnghuó xíguàn.

98

一视同仁

Regard all equally (yī shì tóng rén)

Treat everyone equally

Treat all without bias.

1. 老师对学生一视同仁。
Teacher treats students equally.
Lǎoshī duì xuéshēng yī shì tóng rén.
2. 公司一视同仁，公平晋升。
Fair promotions.
Gōngsī yī shì tóng rén, gōngpíng jìnshēng.
3. 一视同仁避免偏见。
Avoids prejudice.
Yī shì tóng rén bìmiǎn piānjiàn.
4. 一视同仁建立信任关系。
Builds trust.
Yī shì tóng rén jiànlì xìnrèn guānxì.

99

风雨同舟

Wind and rain same boat (fēng yǔ tóng zhōu)

Go through hardships together

Facing difficulties together.

1. 我们风雨同舟，共度难关。
We face hardships together.
Wǒmen fēng yǔ tóng zhōu, gòng dù nánguān.
2. 团队风雨同舟，增强凝聚力。
Teamwork strengthens unity.
Tuánduì fēng yǔ tóng zhōu, zēngqiáng níngjù lì.
3. 风雨同舟的友谊难能可贵。
Precious friendship.
Fēng yǔ tóng zhōu de yǒuyì nán néng kě guì.
4. 战争时期，人们风雨同舟。
People unite in wartime.
Zhànzhēng shíqī, rénmen fēng yǔ tóng zhōu.

100

无中生有

Nothing to produce something (wú zhōng shēng yǒu)

Make something out of nothing

Invent or fabricate something from nothing.

1. 他无中生有，编造故事。
He makes up stories.
Tā wú zhōng shēng yǒu, biānzào gùshì.
2. 无中生有容易引发误解。
Fabrication causes misunderstanding.
Wú zhōng shēng yǒu róngyì yǐnfā wùjiě.
3. 有些新闻无中生有，需要核实。
Some news is fabricated.
Yǒuxiē xīnwén wú zhōng shēng yǒu, xūyào héshí.
4. 创意广告无中生有，但吸引人。
Creative ads invent ideas.
Chuàngyì guǎnggào wú zhōng shēng yǒu, dàn xīyǐn rén.