This entry explains idiom “Ji ming gou dao”, originating from Lord Mengchang’s escape story. It refers to petty, humble tricks‑‑which may save lives in crises yet mostly carries negative connotation in modern usage.
This entry explains idiom “Xiang ru yi mo” from Zhuangzi ‑ Dazongshi. Originally about stranded fish, it now means supporting one another through adversity, differing from its original Daoist philosophical implication.
This entry explains idiom “Mo ni zhi jiao” originating from Zhuangzi ‑ Dazongshi. It refers to bosom friends with perfect spiritual accord, whose friendship rests on shared philosophical insight rather than worldly gains.
This entry explains idiom Xin jin huo chuan from Zhuangzi ‑ Yangshengzhu. It figuratively means physical beings may perish, yet wisdom, culture and spirit get handed down continuously across generations.
This article explains the Chinese idiom 踌躇满志 (chóu chú mǎn zhì), meaning calm, self-satisfied pride after success. It traces the phrase to Zhuangzi’s Cook Ding story, where the master butcher stands content after perfect work.
This entry explains idiom “You ren you yu” originating from Zhuangzi ‑ Yangshengzhu. It praises skilled people handling tough tasks smoothly, by following inherent patterns instead of brute force.
This entry explains idiom “Mu wu quan niu” from Zhuangzi ‑ Yangshengzhu. Stemming from Cook Ding’s parable, it describes consummate expertise: experts perceive inner structures instead of only seeing a whole surface.