Sayings & Idioms · LT901

Idioms

Classical four-character idiomatic expressions derived from historical masterworks.

328works

11dynasties

127authors

Zhou

1046–256 BCE116 works
  1. Jingwei Fills the SeaClassic of Mountains and SeasThe bird Jingwei carries twigs and pebbles to fill the sea; unshakable determination against overwhelming odds.
  2. Kuafu Chases the SunClassic of Mountains and SeasThe giant Kuafu races the sun until he dies of thirst; boundless ambition, or overreaching one's strength.
  3. The Foolish Old Man Moves the MountainsLieziAn old man digs away at two mountains, undeterred by mockery; perseverance can overcome any obstacle.
  4. Yu the Great Tames the FloodMenciusYu the Great channels the floods, passing his own door three times without entering; selfless public service.
  5. The Highest Good Is Like WaterLaoziSupreme goodness is like water, nourishing all things without contending; humble, selfless virtue.
  6. The Way Follows NatureLaoziThe Dao takes what is natural as its model; follow things as they are rather than forcing them.
  7. Governing by Non-ActionConfuciusRuling well without forceful intervention, through virtue and by letting things take their natural course.
  8. Great Virtue Carries All ThingsBook of ChangesLike the earth, a noble person bears all things with generous virtue; a classic motto of moral cultivation.
  9. Covering One's Ears to Steal a BellLüshi ChunqiuA thief covers his own ears while stealing a bell; fooling oneself while fooling no one else.
  10. The Doctrine of the MeanConfuciusThe Confucian way of balance, avoiding excess and deficiency; today also a moderate, compromising attitude.
  11. Investigating Things to Extend KnowledgeGreat LearningProbing the principles of things to attain true knowledge; the first step of Confucian self-cultivation.
  12. Sincere Intentions, Rectified HeartGreat LearningMaking one's intentions sincere and one's heart upright; core steps of Confucian self-cultivation.
  13. Striving Ceaselessly for Self-ImprovementBook of ChangesLike heaven's tireless motion, the noble person strives to improve himself without ever slackening.
  14. The Fox Borrows the Tiger's MightStrategies of the Warring StatesA fox walks ahead of a tiger so beasts flee; bullying others by borrowing someone else's power.
  15. Hair Tied to the Beam, Awl to the ThighStrategies of the Warring StatesScholars tied their hair to a beam or jabbed their thighs to stay awake; studying with extreme diligence.
  16. The Frog at the Bottom of the WellZhuangziA frog in a well thinks the sky is as small as the well's mouth; a person of narrow vision.
  17. Pulling Up Seedlings to Help Them GrowMenciusA farmer tugs his seedlings upward to speed growth and kills them; haste that defies nature ruins everything.
  18. Tossing and TurningBook of SongsTossing and turning in bed; unable to sleep because of longing or worry.
  19. A Graceful and Virtuous MaidenBook of SongsA lovely, gentle and virtuous young woman; an admirable lady worthy of courtship.
  20. The Spear and the Shield ContradictHan FeiziA man boasts his spear pierces anything and his shield stops everything; self-contradiction in words or deeds.
  21. The One I Long ForBook of SongsThat person of whom I speak; the beloved one longed for but out of reach.
  22. Reviewing the Old to Learn the NewConfuciusRevisiting what one has learned yields fresh understanding; also, learning from the past to grasp the present.
  23. Drawing Legs on a SnakeStrategies of the Warring StatesAdding legs to a drawn snake loses the wager; doing something superfluous that ruins the result.
  24. Learning Enough to Fill Five CartsZhuangziHaving read enough books to fill five carts; exceptionally erudite and widely read.
  25. A Hundred Shots, a Hundred HitsStrategies of the Warring StatesYang Youji hit a willow leaf from a hundred paces every time; perfect accuracy, or unfailing judgment.
  26. Giving Up HalfwayDoctrine of the MeanStopping halfway along the road; abandoning a task before it is finished.
  27. Not Ashamed to Ask Those BelowConfuciusUnashamed to learn from those of lower status or learning; humble eagerness to learn.
  28. The Uninvited GuestBook of ChangesA guest who arrives without being invited.
  29. Self-Evident Without WordsMenciusUnderstood without being said; self-evident.
  30. Flying Away Without WingsGuanziVanishing as if on invisible wings; something suddenly missing, or news spreading rapidly.
  31. Learning to Walk in HandanZhuangziA youth imitating Handan's gait forgets how to walk; blind imitation that loses one's own abilities.
  32. Marking the Boat to Find the SwordLüshi ChunqiuSticking rigidly to old methods without seeing that circumstances have changed.
  33. Standing Out from One's KindMenciusFar surpassing one's peers in character or ability; outstanding.
  34. Braving Life and DeathLaoziRepeatedly risking one's life; braving mortal danger without regard for oneself.
  35. Great Vessels Take Long to MakeLaoziGreat talents mature slowly; people of great ability often achieve success late.
  36. Many Talents and Many ArtsBook of DocumentsGifted in many fields; versatile and accomplished.
  37. Supporting the Old, Leading the YoungStrategies of the Warring StatesHelping the elderly and leading the children; whole families turning out together.
  38. Buying the Casket, Returning the PearlHan FeiziValuing outward packaging over real substance; making a foolish choice.
  39. Success Achieved, Fame WonMoziHaving achieved one's goals and won renown.
  40. Driving North to Reach the SouthStrategies of the Warring StatesActing in a way directly opposed to one's goal, so effort leads further away.
  41. Failing for Want of One BasketBook of DocumentsFailing just short of success for lack of a final effort.
  42. The Man of Qi Fears the Sky Will FallLieziNeedless or groundless worry.
  43. Work of Ghostly Axes and Divine CraftZhuangziCraftsmanship or natural scenery so marvelous it seems beyond human ability.
  44. The Horse That Harms the HerdZhuangziA person who harms or corrupts the group; a black sheep.
  45. Snipe and Clam Locked in StruggleStrategies of the Warring StatesWhen two sides fight to a stalemate, a third party reaps the benefit.
  46. The Man of Zheng Buys ShoesHan FeiziTrusting rules and measurements rather than reality; rigid dogmatism.
  47. In Perfect OrderXunziNeatly organized and in perfect order.
  48. Waiting by the Stump for a HareHan FeiziClinging to a lucky past experience instead of adapting; hoping for gain without effort.
  49. The Old Horse Knows the WayHan FeiziAn experienced person knows the way and can guide others.
  50. A Mantis Blocking a ChariotZhuangziOverrating oneself and attempting the impossible; doomed resistance.
  51. Fearless in the Face of DangerZhuangziUnafraid when facing danger.
  52. So Enchanted One Forgets to ReturnMenciusSo captivated by a place or pleasure that one forgets to leave.
  53. Mending the Pen after Losing SheepStrategies of the Warring StatesTaking remedial action after a loss to prevent further damage.
  54. A Thousand Changes, Ten Thousand TransformationsLieziEndlessly changing; showing countless variations.
  55. Dong Shi Imitates the FrownZhuangziThe plain Dong Shi copies Xi Shi's frown and looks worse; blind imitation that backfires.
  56. New Every Day, Different Every MonthBook of RitesChanging day by day and month by month; rapid progress.
  57. Like Fire, Like Reed FlowersGuoyuLike red fire and white reed flowers; vigorous, spectacular, and in full swing.
  58. As If Treading on Thin IceBook of SongsAs if walking on thin ice; acting with the utmost caution.
  59. As If Relieved of a Heavy LoadGuliang CommentaryAs if a heavy burden were lifted; a feeling of great relief.
  60. Think Thrice Before ActingAnalectsThink carefully, again and again, before taking action.
  61. The Law of Heaven and EarthZuozhuanA principle as unalterable as heaven and earth; perfectly justified.
  62. Three Men Make a TigerStrategies of the Warring StatesIf three people say there is a tiger in the market, it is believed; repeated rumor becomes truth.
  63. Driven to Desperate RiskZuozhuanDriven by desperation to take a reckless risk.
  64. Nothing Can Be DoneStrategies of the Warring StatesUtterly helpless; there is nothing to be done.
  65. Joy, Anger, Sorrow, and DelightBook of RitesJoy, anger, grief, and happiness; the full range of human emotions.
  66. With Careful ReverenceBook of SongsOriginally reverent and solemn; now, extremely careful and cautious.
  67. Vivid as LifeZhuangziSo lifelike it seems alive; vividly true to life.
  68. Never Weary of LearningAnalectsNever tiring of learning; always eager to learn more.
  69. Hesitant and UndecidedStrategies of the Warring StatesHesitating and unable to make up one's mind.
  70. Orderly and MethodicalBook of DocumentsWell-ordered and systematic; not the least bit confused.
  71. Know Yourself and Know Your EnemySunziKnowing both yourself and your opponent, the basis for sound action in any contest.
  72. United Wills Form a FortressGuoyuWhen many are of one mind they become a fortress; unity creates unbreakable strength.
  73. Victorious in a Hundred BattlesSunziWinning every battle; invincible in war, or consistently successful in any endeavor.
  74. Guests Feel at HomeZuozhuanGuests feel as if they have come home; describes warm, attentive hospitality.
  75. Unable to Live under the Same SkyBook of RitesUnwilling to share the same sky with an enemy; describes the deepest enmity.
  76. Beyond CureBook of SongsBeyond the help of medicine; hopelessly incorrigible.
  77. CountlessMoziToo many to be counted; countless.
  78. Far from IsolatedGongyang CommentaryNot just one but many; used when listing numerous similar instances.
  79. Sparing No EffortStratagemsSparing no effort; using every ounce of strength.
  80. Overrating OneselfZuozhuanOverestimating one's own abilities and attempting the impossible.
  81. The Pillar in MidstreamYanzi ChunqiuLike the rock standing firm amid the Yellow River's torrent; a person or force that holds steady in a crisis.
  82. Wholehearted ConcentrationMenciusDevoting one's whole mind and attention to a task.
  83. Trembling with AnxietyBook of SongsUneasy and fearful, full of anxious worry.
  84. Giving Up on OneselfMenciusAbandoning oneself to failure or degradation; giving up all effort to improve.
  85. Self-RighteousMenciusBelieving oneself always right and refusing others' views; self-righteous.
  86. Not Yielding in RighteousnessConfuciusTaking on what is right without deferring to anyone, even one's teacher.
  87. The Most Urgent TaskMenciusThe most pressing matter of the moment, to be dealt with first.
  88. Deep-Rooted and Firmly EstablishedLaoziDeeply rooted and firmly fixed; hard to shake or remove.
  89. Weighing on One's MindBook of SongsUnable to let go of something troubling; brooding over it.
  90. Faking It in the Pipe BandHan FeiA man who couldn't play the yu hid among real players; posing as competent among experts.
  91. Too Much Is as Bad as Too LittleConfuciusOverdoing is as bad as underdoing; everything in moderation.
  92. Flowers Without FruitZuo QiumingAll blossom and no fruit; showy on the outside but empty within.
  93. The Benevolent See Benevolence, the Wise See WisdomBook of ChangesDifferent people see the same matter differently, each according to their own perspective.
  94. Changing One's Mind at Every New SightGuanziTo want to change course whenever something new appears; fickle and lacking constancy.
  95. Three in the Morning, Four in the EveningZhuangziOriginally a trick to fool others; now means being fickle and constantly changing.
  96. Keeping Oneself CleanMenciusTo keep oneself morally pure and aloof from wrongdoing; also, to avoid involvement for self-protection.
  97. Draining the Pond to Catch the FishLüshi ChunqiuDraining a pond to get all the fish; sacrificing long-term interest for immediate gain.
  98. Fighting a Tiger Barehanded, Fording a River on FootAnalectsTackling a tiger barehanded and wading a river; reckless courage without judgment.
  99. Hearsay Picked Up on the RoadAnalectsRumors heard on the road and passed on; groundless hearsay.
  100. Mutual Deceit and DistrustZuozhuanEach deceiving and distrusting the other; mutual scheming.
  101. A Bird Startled by the BowStrategies of the Warring StatesA bird once wounded that panics at the twang of a bow; someone easily frightened after a shock.
  102. Holding the Chess Piece UndecidedZuozhuanHolding a chess piece without deciding where to place it; indecision.
  103. Cook Ding Carves the OxZhuangziCook Ding carving an ox with masterly ease; skill that comes from grasping how things work.
  104. Lofty Songs Find Few to Join InSong YuThe loftier the tune, the fewer who can sing along; refined work appreciated by few.
  105. Half the Effort, Double the ResultMenciusHalf the effort for twice the result; highly efficient through the right method.
  106. Double the Effort, Half the ResultMenciusTwice the effort for half the result; inefficient because of a poor method.
  107. In the Same Boat Crossing TogetherSunziCrossing the river in the same boat; pulling together to overcome shared difficulties.
  108. Sighing Before the Vast OceanZhuangziSighing at the vast sea; feeling small before greatness, now also powerless before a task.
  109. Not Plucking a Single HairMenciusUnwilling to pluck even one hair for others; extremely stingy and selfish.
  110. One Day's Sun, Ten Days' ColdMenciusOne day of sun followed by ten of cold; working in fits and starts without perseverance.
  111. Striking a Stone with an EggMoziThrowing an egg against a stone; overestimating oneself and courting defeat.
  112. Giving Up Eating for Fear of ChokingLüshi ChunqiuRefusing to eat because one once choked; abandoning something useful over a minor setback.
  113. Ample Room for the BladeZhuangziThe blade moves with room to spare; handling a task with effortless skill.
  114. Preparedness Averts PerilZuozhuanBeing prepared in advance prevents disaster.
  115. The More One Hides, the More It ShowsZuozhuanTrying to cover something up only makes it more conspicuous.
  116. Leaving the Altar to Do the Cook's JobZhuangziThe priest leaving the altar to take over the cook's work; overstepping one's role.

Han

202 BCE – 220 CE61 works
  1. Chang'e Flies to the MoonHuainanziChang'e swallows the elixir of immortality and flies to the moon; a myth evoking longing and the moon's beauty.
  2. Nüwa Mends the SkyHuainanziThe goddess Nüwa smelts five-colored stones to repair the broken sky; heroic effort to set a collapsing world right.
  3. A Bow's Reflection Mistaken for a SnakeYing ShaoMistaking a bow reflected in a wine cup for a snake; needless fear born of groundless suspicion.
  4. The Cowherd and the Weaver GirlNineteen Old PoemsLovers separated by the Milky Way who meet once a year; couples living apart who rarely reunite.
  5. Sleeping on Brushwood and Tasting GallSima QianKing Goujian slept on brushwood and tasted gall to remember his humiliation; enduring hardship to prepare for revenge or success.
  6. Bearing Brambles to Beg ForgivenessSima QianGeneral Lian Po carried thorny brambles on his back to apologize; sincerely admitting fault and asking forgiveness.
  7. Returning the Jade Intact to ZhaoSima QianLin Xiangru brought the precious jade back safely to Zhao; returning something intact to its rightful owner.
  8. Calling a Deer a HorseSima QianZhao Gao presented a deer as a horse to test officials' loyalty; deliberately distorting truth and falsehood.
  9. Songs of Chu on All SidesSima QianXiang Yu, besieged, heard Chu songs from every side; surrounded by enemies and utterly isolated.
  10. Fighting with One's Back to the RiverSima QianHan Xin deployed troops with a river behind them, cutting off retreat; a desperate all-or-nothing fight.
  11. Mao Sui Recommends HimselfSima QianMao Sui volunteered to join his lord's mission to Chu; stepping forward to recommend oneself for a task.
  12. Breaking the Cauldrons and Sinking the BoatsSima QianXiang Yu smashed cooking pots and sank his boats after crossing the river; total commitment with no retreat.
  13. Waging War on PaperSima QianZhao Kuo knew military texts but lost disastrously in battle; empty theorizing with no practical ability.
  14. Playing the Lute to a CowMou RongPlaying refined music to a cow; wasting words on an audience that cannot understand or appreciate them.
  15. The Old Frontiersman Loses His HorseHuainanziAn old man's lost horse returns with a fine steed; misfortune may prove a blessing in disguise.
  16. A Promise Worth a Thousand GoldSima QianA single promise is worth a thousand pieces of gold; absolute trustworthiness in keeping one's word.
  17. One Word Weighs as Much as Nine TripodsSima QianWords as weighty as the nine sacred tripods; speech that carries decisive authority.
  18. Living in Peace and Working in ContentmentBan GuLiving in security and working happily at one's trade; a peaceful, well-ordered society.
  19. Shivering Without ColdSima QianTrembling though not cold; gripped by fear or dread.
  20. Agreeing Without Prior ArrangementSima QianActing or speaking in unison without any prior agreement.
  21. The Great Task Is AccomplishedBook of HanA great undertaking or important task has finally been completed.
  22. Brimming with Self-SatisfactionRecords of the Grand HistorianLooking very pleased with oneself; smug and complacent.
  23. The Swift-Footed Arrive FirstRecords of the Grand HistorianThe quickest to act gets there first and wins the prize.
  24. One Hair from Nine OxenSima QianA negligible fraction of a vast amount; a drop in the ocean.
  25. Seen So Often It Is Nothing NewRecords of the Grand HistorianSo common that it is no longer surprising.
  26. All Previous Effort WastedSima QianAll previous efforts and achievements come to nothing.
  27. Lord Ye Loves DragonsLiu XiangLord Ye professes to love dragons but flees a real one; professed love that is not genuine.
  28. Seek Truth from FactsBan GuTo base conclusions on facts and seek the truth from reality.
  29. First to Bear the BruntBan GuTo be the first to face an attack or bear the brunt of a disaster.
  30. Strike First to Gain ControlBan GuStrike first to gain the upper hand.
  31. Passing Fish Eyes Off as PearlsWei BoyangPassing off fish eyes as pearls; palming off fakes as genuine.
  32. Unbending after a Hundred SetbacksCai YongNever yielding however many setbacks one suffers; describes indomitable will.
  33. Clinging to the Broken and IncompleteLiu XinClinging to fragmentary old texts; stubbornly conservative and resistant to change.
  34. Without Learning or SkillBan GuHaving neither learning nor skill; ignorant and incompetent.
  35. Not Worth MentioningSima QianNot worth mentioning; often a modest reply to thanks or praise.
  36. Issuing Orders at Dawn, Changing Them at DuskChao CuoAn order given at dawn is changed by dusk; constantly shifting policies.
  37. Honest Advice Grates on the EarSima QianSincere advice is unpleasant to hear but good for one's conduct; urges accepting criticism.
  38. Weightier than Mount TaiSima QianHeavier than Mount Tai; of the utmost significance, especially a death for a worthy cause.
  39. Standing Out from the CrowdBan GuOf outstanding talent and virtue, far above the ordinary.
  40. Holding One Front AloneSima QianCapable of taking sole charge of one area or front.
  41. Mending One's WaysSima QianCorrecting one's mistakes and making a fresh start.
  42. Misfortunes Never Come SinglyLiu XiangMisfortunes tend to come one after another rather than alone.
  43. Many Littles Make a LotBan GuSmall amounts steadily accumulated add up to a great deal.
  44. Nothing but Four Bare WallsSima QianA home with nothing but four bare walls; utter poverty.
  45. Forgetting Righteousness at the Sight of GainBan GuTo abandon principle and loyalty at the sight of personal gain.
  46. Overcorrecting a WrongBan GuTo overcorrect an error so that one swings to the opposite extreme.
  47. Raising Bamboo Poles in RevoltJia YiTo raise bamboo poles as banners and rise in revolt; a popular uprising.
  48. Seeking a Steed by Its PictureBan GuLooking for a fine horse by a picture; rigidly following rules, or searching by clues.
  49. Birds Gone, the Bow Is Put AwaySima QianOnce the birds are shot, the bow is stored away; discarding loyal helpers after success.
  50. The Overturned Cart Ahead as a WarningBan GuThe cart ahead overturned serves as a warning; learning from others' past failures.
  51. The Spent Arrow of a Strong CrossbowSima QianAn arrow from a mighty crossbow at the end of its flight; once-great strength now spent.
  52. Little Seen, Much Marveled AtMou RongThose who have seen little marvel at the ordinary; mocks a lack of experience.
  53. A Rat Peering Both WaysSima QianLike a rat poking its head out and looking both ways; wavering and indecisive.
  54. Dead Ashes Flare Up AgainSima QianDead ashes rekindling; a fallen force regaining power, or a suppressed evil reviving.
  55. Hesitating to Throw at a Rat for Fear of the VaseBan GuWanting to hit the rat but fearing to break the vessel beside it; restrained by side concerns.
  56. The Hare Dead, the Hound Is CookedSima QianOnce the hare is caught, the hound is cooked; discarding or killing helpers after success.
  57. Precarious as Stacked EggsSima QianAs precarious as a stack of eggs; an extremely perilous situation.
  58. Amazing the World with a Single CrySima QianA bird silent for years whose first cry astonishes all; a sudden, remarkable achievement.
  59. Badgers from the Same HillBan GuBadgers of the same hill; people equally bad, birds of a feather.
  60. Putting Oneself to the Test of the LawBan GuTo test the law with one's own conduct; knowingly breaking the law.
  61. Devising Strategy Within the TentSima QianPlanning strategy inside the command tent; directing operations through careful planning.

Three Kingdoms

220–28011 works
  1. Separating Heaven and EarthXu ZhengFrom the myth of Pangu splitting heaven from earth; since the dawn of time, or an unprecedented feat.
  2. Three Visits to the Thatched CottageZhuge LiangLiu Bei visited Zhuge Liang's cottage three times to recruit him; sincerely and repeatedly seeking out talent.
  3. Bowing in Devotion Until ExhaustedZhuge LiangServing with reverent care and giving all one's strength; lifelong, wholehearted devotion to duty.
  4. Facing Wine, One Should SingCao CaoSing over your wine, for life is short; originally a lament on fleeting time, later carefree revelry.
  5. Through Boiling Water and FireJi KangBraving any danger; willing to go through fire and water for a cause.
  6. Pooling Wisdom for Greater BenefitZhuge LiangDrawing on collective wisdom and useful suggestions to achieve better results.
  7. Belittling Oneself Without CauseZhuge LiangTo underrate oneself without reason; undue self-deprecation.
  8. Looking Left and RightCao ZhiGlancing left and right; originally self-satisfied, now looking around or hesitating.
  9. Versed in Past and PresentKongzi JiayuWell versed in both ancient and modern matters; broadly learned.
  10. Not Knowing What One Is SayingZhuge LiangOriginally humble; now for speech or writing so muddled one can't tell its point.
  11. Driving Straight InCao CaoDriving deep into enemy territory unopposed; an irresistible advance.

Jin

265–42017 works
  1. Too Happy to Miss ShuXi ZuochiThe captive Shu ruler Liu Shan said he was too content to miss home; so happy one forgets one's roots.
  2. Boring Through the Wall to Borrow LightMiscellanies of the Western CapitalToo poor for candles, Kuang Heng bored a hole to read by his neighbor's lamp; studying hard despite poverty.
  3. The Peach Blossom Land Beyond the WorldTao YuanmingFrom Tao Yuanming's hidden Peach Blossom Spring; an idyllic retreat untouched by the troubles of the world.
  4. Beyond Thought and WordsKumarajiva (trans.)Originally Buddhist: beyond conception or description; now, unimaginable or incomprehensible.
  5. Not Seeking Thorough UnderstandingTao YuanmingOriginally reading for the gist without pedantry; now, studying superficially without seeking deep understanding.
  6. From Ancient Times to the PresentPan YueThroughout all ages, from antiquity until now.
  7. Like a Fish Finding WaterChen ShouLike a fish in water; finding a congenial person or an ideal environment.
  8. Never Letting the Book Leave One's HandChen ShouAlways with a book in hand; diligent and devoted to study.
  9. Flourishing Toward ProsperityTao YuanmingPlants thriving; a cause flourishing and prospering.
  10. The One and Only Waytr. KumarajivaOriginally a Buddhist term for the gate of non-duality; now the one and only way.
  11. At a Loss What to DoChen ShouNot knowing what to do; at a complete loss.
  12. Not Sure of Surviving Till EveningLi MiUnsure in the morning of lasting till evening; in dire, precarious straits.
  13. Seeing Someone in a New LightChen ShouViewing someone with fresh eyes after they have markedly improved.
  14. Letting the Tiger Return to the MountainsChen ShouLetting a tiger back into the hills; releasing an enemy and inviting future trouble.
  15. Drawing Cakes to Allay HungerChen ShouDrawing a cake to satisfy hunger; empty names without substance, or consoling oneself with fantasy.
  16. The Blind Men and the ElephantBuddhist SutraBlind men each touching part of an elephant; judging the whole from a partial view.
  17. Asking the Tiger for Its SkinFu LangAsking a tiger for its hide; negotiating with someone to give up their vital interests is futile.

Northern and Southern

420–58926 works
  1. Raising the Tray to Eyebrow LevelFan YeMeng Guang raised the food tray to her brows when serving her husband; mutual respect between spouses.
  2. Unconcerned with TriflesFan YeNot fussing over minor details or etiquette; easygoing and broad-minded in manner.
  3. Barely SatisfactoryFan YeOriginally, still able to rouse spirits; now, passable or more or less satisfactory.
  4. Spilled Water Cannot Be GatheredBook of the Later HanWhat is done cannot be undone, like spilled water that cannot be recovered.
  5. A Crane among ChickensA New Account of Tales of the WorldStanding out conspicuously from those around one in bearing or talent.
  6. A Rising TalentA New Account of Tales of the WorldA promising newcomer; an outstanding member of the younger generation.
  7. Old but Ever More VigorousBook of the Later HanGrowing more vigorous and determined with age.
  8. Strength Fails the WillBook of the Later HanWanting to do something but lacking the strength or ability.
  9. Too Much for the Eyes to Take InA New Account of Tales of the WorldSo much to see that the eyes cannot keep up.
  10. Silent, Imperceptible TransformationYan ZhituiOne's thinking or character is gradually changed by unnoticed influence.
  11. Pleasing to Heart and EyeXie LingyunDelightful to the heart and pleasing to the eye.
  12. Quenching Thirst by Thinking of PlumsLiu YiqingCao Cao's thirsty troops cheered by imagined plums; consoling oneself with fantasies.
  13. Ten Thousand People, One HeartFan YeMillions united as one; complete solidarity.
  14. In High SpiritsLiu XieOriginally of lofty, brilliant writing; now, elated and in high spirits.
  15. Different Mouths, One VoiceShen YueMany people saying the same thing; unanimous.
  16. Leading into WonderlandLiu YiqingDrawing one into an enchanting realm; captivating scenery or works.
  17. Too Many to Take InLiu YiqingToo much beauty to take in at once; or too many matters to handle.
  18. A Hundred Feelings MingledLiu YiqingAll kinds of feelings welling up at once; describes deeply mixed emotions.
  19. Growing Worse and WorseXiao TongOriginally to develop further; now for something bad becoming even worse.
  20. Running Neck and NeckLiu XieHorses harnessed side by side galloping together; being on a par with one another.
  21. Crouching Tiger, Hidden DragonYu XinHidden dragons and crouching tigers; a place concealing undiscovered talent.
  22. Putting It Out of MindFan YeGiving no thought to something, especially one's own safety or life.
  23. Overbearingly AggressiveLiu YiqingAggressively overbearing; also, strikingly impressive in a way that puts others under pressure.
  24. Nipping Evil in the BudFan YeTo check wrongdoing at its first sign and prevent it from growing.
  25. Viewing a Leopard Through a TubeLiu YiqingSeeing only one spot of a leopard through a tube; a partial view, or inferring the whole from a part.
  26. Drawing a Tiger That Looks Like a DogFan YeTrying to draw a tiger but ending with a dog; overreaching ambition or clumsy imitation.

Tang

618–90738 works
  1. Rising to Practice Swordplay at CockcrowBook of JinZu Ti rose at midnight cockcrow to practice swordsmanship; ambitious people seizing every moment to strive.
  2. Wielding an Axe at Lu Ban's DoorLiu ZongyuanShowing off axe skills before the master carpenter Lu Ban; displaying one's meager skill before an expert.
  3. A Dream While the Millet CooksShen JijiA scholar dreams a lifetime of glory before his millet finishes cooking; fleeting, illusory ambitions.
  4. Viewing Flowers on HorsebackMeng JiaoGlancing at flowers from a galloping horse; looking at things superficially without close examination.
  5. Proud in the Spring BreezeMeng JiaoMeng Jiao's joy after passing the imperial exam; elated pride at success in career or life.
  6. Green Plums and Bamboo HorsesLi BaiChildren playing with green plums and hobby horses; the innocent bond of a boy and girl who grew up together.
  7. Two Innocent ChildrenLi BaiA boy and girl playing together as children with no suspicion or self-consciousness; innocent childhood companionship.
  8. Having Once Seen the Vast SeaYuan ZhenOnce you have seen the ocean, other waters pale; broad experience, or devotion to a love beyond compare.
  9. Returning in a Cloud of DustDu MuCharging back amid swirling dust; staging a comeback after defeat with renewed strength.
  10. White Clouds Turn into Grey DogsDu FuClouds shaped like white robes suddenly become grey dogs; the unpredictable changeability of worldly affairs.
  11. The Broken Mirror Made WholeMeng QiA couple parted by war reunite by matching halves of a broken mirror; estranged spouses coming back together.
  12. The Ends of the EarthBai JuyiThe corners of the sea and edges of the sky; the remotest places, or people separated by great distance.
  13. Dotting the Eyes of the Painted DragonZhang YanyuanA painter dots a dragon's eyes and it flies away; the crucial finishing touch that brings a work to life.
  14. The Whole Room Roars with LaughterZhao LinEveryone in the room bursts out laughing at once.
  15. Not Even Chickens and Dogs Have PeaceLiu ZongyuanSuch severe disturbance that even the chickens and dogs have no peace.
  16. Shaking Heaven and EarthBai JuyiSo powerful or momentous that it shakes heaven and earth.
  17. A Thousand-Weight Hanging by a HairHan YuA great weight hanging by a single hair; a situation of extreme peril.
  18. Rare in a Thousand YearsHan YuSo rare it may not come once in a thousand years; a golden opportunity.
  19. Unable to Hold Back a SmileZhao LinCannot help laughing; unable to suppress a smile.
  20. Common Sight to the MinisterMeng QiSo familiar to the minister it causes no surprise; commonplace.
  21. One Arrow, Two EaglesLi YanshouHitting two eagles with one arrow; achieving two aims with one action.
  22. Ends of the Earth, Corners of the SeaHan YuThe remotest corners of the world; places very far apart.
  23. One Act, Two GainsFang Xuanling et al.Gaining two benefits from a single action.
  24. Treat All AlikeHan YuTo treat everyone equally without favoritism.
  25. Charge Again, Sharpen AgainHan Yu & Meng JiaoFighting cocks whet their beaks before each bout; keep up the effort again and again.
  26. All-EmbracingYellow Emperor's Dwelling ClassicEmbracing every phenomenon; all-inclusive and rich in content.
  27. Evenly MatchedLu GuimengHard to tell which is higher or lower; evenly matched.
  28. Pillowing on a Spear Awaiting DawnBook of JinSleeping with head on a spear, awaiting dawn; ever vigilant and ready for battle.
  29. Clinging to Error Without AwakeningYao SilianStubbornly persisting in a mistaken course and refusing to see reason.
  30. Steeped by What One Sees and HearsHan YuUnconsciously influenced by what one constantly hears and sees.
  31. Failing on the Verge of SuccessFang Xuanling et al.Failing just when success was within reach.
  32. Living Under Another's RoofLi YanshouTo live in dependence on others; also, to imitate others without originality.
  33. Light Carriage on a Familiar RoadHan YuDriving a light carriage on a familiar road; doing something with ease through experience.
  34. A Moth Flying into the FlameYao SilianA moth darting into the flame; courting one's own destruction.
  35. A Dream of NankeLi GongzuoA dream of glory under a southern branch; an illusory fortune or empty joy.
  36. Hard to Dismount a TigerBook of JinRiding a tiger and unable to get off; caught in a course of action one cannot abandon.
  37. Penetrating Three Fen into the WoodZhang HuaiguanBrushstrokes biting deep into the wood; forceful calligraphy, or penetrating insight and description.
  38. Splitting Apart at the Blade's TouchBook of JinLike bamboo splitting at the blade; once the key issue is solved, the rest follows easily.

Ten Kingdoms

907–9793 works
  1. Adapting to CircumstancesLiu Xu et al.To adapt flexibly and act as circumstances change.
  2. Seamless Heavenly RobeNiu QiaoA celestial robe with no seams; flawless and without a trace of imperfection.
  3. Opportunity Must Not Be MissedOld Book of TangA rare opportunity must not be lost; urges prompt action.

Song

960–127941 works
  1. Unity of Heaven and HumanityZhang ZaiThe philosophical ideal that heaven and humankind form one whole; harmony between people and nature.
  2. Grinding an Iron Pestle into a NeedleZhu MuAn old woman grinds an iron rod into a needle, inspiring young Li Bai; persistence achieves the impossible.
  3. A Wild Goose's Tracks in the SnowSu ShiClaw prints left by a wild goose on snowy mud; faint traces of the past, and life's wandering course.
  4. Mountains upon Mountains, Rivers upon RiversLu YouEndless ridges and winding streams; a tortuous path, or a predicament that seems to have no way out.
  5. Shady Willows and Bright FlowersLu YouDark willows and bright blossoms open onto a new village; a sudden turn for the better after hardship.
  6. A Red Apricot Branch Over the WallYe ShaowengOriginally a spring image of apricot blossoms spilling over a wall; later, a married woman's infidelity.
  7. Life Is But a DreamSu ShiLife is like a dream, brief and illusory; a sigh over the transience of human life.
  8. Flowers in a Mirror, Moon in the WaterYan YuFlowers in a mirror and the moon in water; illusions beyond grasp, or ethereal, suggestive poetic imagery.
  9. The Path Winds Round the PeaksOuyang XiuA trail winding around mountain peaks; a twisting path, or a situation taking a new and hopeful turn.
  10. When the Water Falls, the Rocks AppearSu ShiAs the river recedes the stones emerge; the truth finally comes to light.
  11. Having the Whole Bamboo in One's MindSu ShiBefore painting, the artist already sees the whole bamboo; having a well-thought-out plan and full confidence.
  12. Talent Worth Eight MeasuresShi ChangtanXie Lingyun said Cao Zhi alone held eight of the world's ten measures of talent; extraordinary literary gifts.
  13. Swallowing Dates WholeBai TingAccepting or learning something wholesale without understanding it.
  14. Adding Flowers to BrocadeWang AnshiMaking something already beautiful even better.
  15. Striving for Ever Greater PerfectionZhu XiNever satisfied with good; always striving to make it better.
  16. Practice Makes PerfectOuyang XiuSkill and ingenuity come from repeated practice.
  17. Opening the Door to See the MountainYan YuComing straight to the point from the very beginning.
  18. Unprecedented and UnrepeatableXuanhe Painting CatalogueNever seen before and never to be seen again; utterly unique.
  19. A Thousand Ways and a Hundred SchemesZhu XiTo try every possible means; to leave no stone unturned.
  20. Joy Beyond ExpectationSu ShiOverjoyed by an unexpected piece of good fortune.
  21. Heart at Ease, Spirit DelightedFan ZhongyanCarefree and joyful; a heart open and spirit refreshed.
  22. Cutting Nails and Slicing IronDaoyuanDecisive and resolute, like cutting through nails and iron.
  23. Never Tired of RereadingSu ShiNever tiresome even after a hundred readings; praises writing of lasting appeal.
  24. Showing No SignOuyang XiuBetraying no emotion in voice or face; calm and composed.
  25. A Grain of Millet in the Vast SeaSu ShiA single grain of millet in the vast sea; utterly insignificant in the scheme of things.
  26. Point Against PointShi DaoyuanNeedle point against needle point; sharply opposed positions or tit-for-tat response.
  27. Upright and OpenZhu XiUpright, honest and selfless in word and deed; acting openly without hidden schemes.
  28. Deceiving Oneself and OthersZhu XiFooling oneself as well as others with what one knows to be untrue.
  29. Just as One WishesZhu DunruEntirely to one's liking; perfectly satisfying.
  30. Head and Shoulders Above OthersOuyang XiuRising above others in talent or status; standing out from the crowd.
  31. Open and AboveboardZhu XiFrank, open-hearted and upright, with nothing to hide.
  32. Spitting Blood at OthersShi PujiSlandering others with fabricated accusations.
  33. Honeyed WordsZhu XiSweet but insincere talk, often used to deceive.
  34. Feet Firmly on the GroundShao BowenKeeping one's feet on solid ground; working in a practical, earnest way.
  35. Beating the Grass Startles the SnakeZheng WenbaoBeating the grass alerts the snake; a careless move that forewarns one's target.
  36. Great Talent Put to Petty UseLu YouUsing great timber for small purposes; wasting a talented person on minor work.
  37. Honey on the Lips, a Sword in the BellySima GuangSweet words with a dagger hidden within; outwardly friendly but inwardly treacherous.
  38. Name Falls Below Sun ShanFan GongchengOne's name falls below Sun Shan, last on the list; a tactful way to say one failed an exam.
  39. Please Step into the UrnSima GuangPlease get into the urn; turning a person's own cruel method against him.
  40. Dripping Water Wears Through StoneLuo DajingConstant dripping wears through stone; persistence overcomes great difficulty.
  41. Turning Pale at the Mention of TigersCheng BrothersBlanching at the mere mention of tigers; fear of something one has suffered from.

Yuan

1271–13683 works
  1. Calm and Self-PossessedToqto'a et al.Calm and composed, even in an emergency.
  2. Staking Everything on One ThrowHistory of SongBetting everything on a single throw; a desperate all-or-nothing gamble.
  3. The Fox Mourns the Dead HareHistory of SongThe fox grieves over the dead hare; sorrow for the misfortune of one's own kind.

Ming

1368–16448 works
  1. Unity of Knowledge and ActionWang YangmingWang Yangming's teaching that knowing and doing are inseparable; true knowledge shows itself in action.
  2. Wielding Broad AxesWater MarginActing boldly and decisively, sweeping aside obstacles with great resolve.
  3. Tearing Down the Bridge After CrossingHistory of YuanAbandoning those who helped you once you have got what you wanted.
  4. A Thousand Pieces All AlikeWang ShizhenMany works or things following one pattern; monotonous and lacking variety.
  5. A Sudden Surge of the HeartInvestiture of the GodsA sudden impulse or whim that springs to mind.
  6. Hanging Lanterns and FestoonsWater MarginLanterns hung and silk festoons tied; describes the lively, joyful decorations of a festival or celebration.
  7. Neither Servile nor ArrogantZhu ZhiyuNeither humble nor haughty; poised and appropriately dignified in manner.
  8. Clinging to the Last BreathMa ZhongxiBarely hanging on to life; struggling to survive a little longer.

Qing

1636–19124 works
  1. Not Bound by a Single PatternGong ZizhenNot confined to one standard or form; flexible and open, especially in choosing talent or creative methods.
  2. A Hundred Flowers BloomLi RuzhenA hundred flowers blooming together; varied artistic styles flourishing freely.
  3. Seize the DayMao ZedongMaking every moment count to reach a goal as quickly as possible.
  4. A Cornered Dog Leaps the WallCao XueqinEven a dog jumps the wall when desperate; a cornered person will do anything.