见微知著
见微知著 (jiàn wēi zhī zhù) literally means “see small know large” and expresses “foresee big from small signs”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
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Foresee big from small signs
Pronunciation: jiàn wēi zhī zhù
Literal meaning: See small know large
Origin & Usage
First appearing in the Book of Changes, this idiom describes the ability to see (见) subtle signs (微) to understand (知) significant developments (著). During the Warring States period, strategist Sun Bin emphasized this principle in military observation. The concept gained broader application during the Song Dynasty, when scholars applied it to historical analysis and governance. Modern usage emphasizes the importance of recognizing patterns and trends from early indicators, particularly in business strategy and scientific research.
Examples
English: "The experienced investor recognized the market trend from early indicators"
Chinese: 有经验的投资者从早期指标认识到市场趋势
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
南辕北辙
nán yuán běi zhé
Actions contrary to one's goals
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耳目一新
ěr mù yī xīn
A refreshing new experience
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循序渐进
xún xù jiàn jìn
Progress step by step
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恍然大悟
huǎng rán dà wù
Sudden complete understanding after confusion
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邯郸学步
hán dān xué bù
Lose abilities through misguided imitation
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归根到底
guī gēn dào dǐ
Fundamentally or in the final analysis
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瓜田李下
guā tián lǐ xià
Avoid situations that invite suspicion
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得不偿失
dé bù cháng shī
Gains not worth the cost or sacrifice
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 见微知著 mean in English?
见微知著 (jiàn wēi zhī zhù) literally translates to “See small know large” and is used to express “Foresee big from small signs”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 见微知著 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving foresee big from small signs.
What is the pinyin for 见微知著?
The pinyin pronunciation for 见微知著 is “jiàn wēi zhī zhù”.