Chinese idiom 不耻下问

Review Chinese Idioms With Easy Explanations & Learning Activities:

不耻下问 bù chǐ xià wèn

 

Chinese idiom chengyu 不耻下问 buchixiawen bù chǐ xià wèn English meanings definitions expressions Similar Opposite

 

 

 

Learning Chinese idioms (成语) can be a fun and meaningful way to understand Chinese language and culture. It is however, not easy for children learning Chinese and English speakers to understand what they mean. And, Chinese idioms dictionaries often have explanations that need explanations themselves.

 

Not to worry! We have carefully written clear explanations in English for you. We have also added the equivalent English idioms and expressions so it’s super easy to understand! By the end of this blog post, you would have learned one more Chinese idiom!

 

Let’s dive into the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) , the phrase which teaches us the importance of humility, respect, and an insatiable curiosity for knowledge.

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Literal Meaning

The literal translation of the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) in English is “No shame in asking someone below you.

 

Definition

The Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) is used to describe someone who feels no shame or fear in learning from someone of a lower social status or might be younger and is humble enough to consult someone inferior to you.

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Similar English Idioms 相似英文习语

Comparable phrases in English include “open-minded” and “broad-minded.

  • To be open-minded: to have a willingness to consider new ideas and perspectives without prejudice. It reflects an ability to set aside personal biases and embrace diverse viewpoints, fostering collaboration and understanding.
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    For example, an open-minded individual might eagerly explore different cultural traditions when visiting a foreign country.
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  • To be broad-minded: the phrase emphasizes tolerance and acceptance of differences, often in the context of moral or social views.
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    For instance, a broad-minded leader would welcome suggestions from all team members, valuing their unique insights regardless of their roles or experience levels.
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Both idioms echo the spirit of the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) by promoting an inclusive and respectful approach to learning and interaction. 

 

Example 例句

  1. 我觉得吴先生真棒!每当他需要别人的意见时,也愿意不耻下问,了解自己十几岁女儿的意见。
    (Wǒ juéde Wú xiānsheng zhēn bàng! Měi dāng tā xūyào biérén de yìjiàn shí, yě yuànyì bù chǐ xià wèn, liǎojiě zìjǐ shí jǐ suì nǚ’ér de yìjiàn.)
    I find it awesome that when Mr. Wu looks for advice, he’s not above asking even his 10-year-old daughter.
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  2. 真正有学问的人,对自己不懂的东西,总是不耻下问。
    (Zhēnzhèng yǒu xuéwèn de rén, duì zìjǐ bù dǒng de dōngxi, zǒng shì bù chǐ xià wèn.)
    A truly wise person is always willing to consult others on what they don’t know.
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  3. 柳树越高大,枝条越低垂,学问越高的人,越应该不耻下问。
    (Liǔshù yuè gāodà, zhītiáo yuè dīchuí, xuéwèn yuè gāo de rén, yuè yīnggāi bù chǐ xià wèn.)
    Just as willow trees grow taller but their branches droop lower, the more learned one is, the humbler one should be in asking questions.a body of water surrounded by trees and grass 5

 

Historical Origin of The Chinese Idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn)

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The Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) originates from 《论语》 (Lúnyǔ), a classic book written by Confucius’ students. It references the humility and open-mindedness of a virtuous and knowledgeable government official at that time.

He was known for seeking knowledge from everyone, including farmers and craftsmen, He eventually earned their respect and was given the title “Wén” (文), symbolizing his contributions to culture and morality after he passed away.

Confucius explained that his willingness to consult those of lower status in the social hierarchy exemplified true learning and humility. His words highlight that in the quest for knowledge, social hierarchy becomes irrelevant.

You can also watch this video to know more about this story:

 

By referencing the origin of the Chinese idiom, children or Chinese learners can gain a clearer understanding of the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) and the significance of never giving up.

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Related Chinese Idioms

To deepen your understanding, here are some similar idioms 相似词:

  • 移樽就教 (yí zūn jiù jiào): “To move the wine cup and consult”—a metaphor for seeking advice humbly from others.
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  • 虚心求教 (xū xīn qiú jiào): “Humbly seeking guidance”—expressing the importance of actively seeking advice with a modest attitude.

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And here are a few opposing expressions 相反词:

  • 自高自大 (zì gāo zì dà): “To consider oneself superior”—a negative attitude implying arrogance and unwillingness to learn from others.

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  • 师心自用 (shī xīn zì yòng): “To act on one’s own judgment without listening to others”—highlighting a self-centered approach that disregards external perspectives or advice.

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These terms provide a fuller understanding of the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) and how to describe opposite behaviors.

 

 

 

Easy Learning Activities for Kids

Want to make learning this idiom even more memorable? Here are a few fun activities:

  • Watch the Draw-along Chengyu Video featuring Dim Sum Warriors’ cartoonist and teacher. Together, they bring the story of the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) to life through engaging visuals and interesting background stories.Let’s draw the characters, learn the meanings, and listen to the stories all at once!

Chinese idiom chengyu 不耻下问 buchixiawen bù chǐ xià wèn English meanings definitions expressions Similar Opposite video thumbnail preview

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  • Suggested discussion question:,
    “要做到不耻下问,你觉得可以怎么做?”
    (Yào zuò dào bùchǐxiàwèn, nǐ juédé kěyǐ zěnme zuò?)
    “How can you practice not being ashamed to ask questions?”

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  • Suggested activity: Ask someone younger (or of a lower status) than you to teach you something they are really good at 

 

By incorporating the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) into daily interactions, we can inspire a culture of learning and respect, bridging diverse perspectives.

 

The Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) is more than just a Chinese idiom; it is a timeless principle that fosters humility, respect, and an insatiable curiosity for knowledge. Its lessons are universal, reminding us that wisdom can come from any source, regardless of age, gender, social hierarchy, or experience. By embracing this mindset in our daily lives, we not only enhance our personal growth but also contribute to a culture of learning and understanding.

In today’s interconnected world, where collaboration and inclusivity are key, the spirit of the Chinese idiom 不耻下问 (bù chǐ xià wèn) remains profoundly relevant. Let us carry this valuable lesson forward, applying it in our interactions, education, and endeavors to create a more open and enlightened society!

 

 

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