Basic Info Figurative Definition It describes something whose colors are mixed, mottled, and complexly varied – like an old bronze vessel with patches of green patina, a weathered wall with layers of fading paint, or a surface covered in many different hues. It is used almost exclusively for concrete physical objects – antiques, stones,…
Basic Info Figurative Definition It means to show off one’s skill before an expert – to display one’s meager ability in front of someone far more accomplished, revealing one’s own ignorance or arrogance. It is the height of foolish self-display: how can you boast of carpentry while standing at the door of the greatest…
Basic Info Figurative Definition It refers to unofficial writings that record anecdotes, folk tales, rumors, and private historical accounts – material that is not part of the official record or the classical canon. It includes popular histories, gossip, legends, and anecdotal literature. The tone can be neutral or slightly dismissive: In short: unofficial history…
Basic Info Also written as 拜相封侯 (bài xiàng fēng hóu – “appointed as chancellor and enfeoffed as a marquis”). Figurative Definition It describes the pinnacle of worldly success – being appointed to the highest military rank and granted noble title, with all the honor, wealth, and status that come with it. It is the…
This entry explains Chinese idiom 百足之虫, 死而不僵(bǎi zú zhī chóng, sǐ ér bù jiāng). It describes lingering residual influence of declined powers, covering its origin, insight and English equivalents.
This entry explains Chinese idiom 百战不殆(bǎi zhàn bù dài) from Sun Tzu’s The Art of War. It means evading peril in conflicts via self‑and‑enemy awareness, distinguishing it from 百战百胜, covering its lesson and English equivalents.
This entry explains Chinese idiom 百战百胜(bǎi zhàn bǎi shèng) originating from Sun Tzu’s The Art of War. It means winning every fight, yet Sun Tzu notes victory without combat is superior, covering its lesson and English equivalents.
This entry explains Chinese idiom 败军之将(bài jūn zhī jiàng) from Records of the Grand Historian. It denotes a defeated leader with impaired credibility, yet notes failure does not negate wisdom, covering its lesson and English equivalents.
This entry explains Chinese idiom 百折不挠(bǎi zhé bù náo). It describes indomitable resolve amid countless setbacks, covering its origin, moral lesson and matching English equivalents.