买椟还珠
买椟还珠 (mǎi dú huán zhū) literally means “buy case, return pearl” and expresses “valuing packaging over content”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: mai du huan zhu, mai du huan zhu,买椟还珠 meaning, 买椟还珠 in english
Valuing packaging over content
Pronunciation: mǎi dú huán zhū
Literal meaning: Buy case, return pearl
Origin & Usage
This misguided idiom describes buying (买) a decorative box (椟) but returning (还) the pearl (珠) inside, originating from the Warring States period text 'Han Feizi.' It tells of a merchant from Chu who offered a valuable pearl in a beautifully carved box. The buyer from Zheng was so captivated by the ornate container that he purchased it but returned the pearl, completely missing the true value. The tale gained prominence during the Han Dynasty as a metaphor for mistaking superficial appearances for real worth. Unlike terms for simple foolishness, it specifically criticizes valuing ornamental packaging over substantive content. Modern usage describes prioritizing superficial elements while overlooking genuine value, particularly relevant in consumer culture and aesthetics.
Examples
English: "The collector purchased the elaborate frame but returned the valuable painting it contained"
Chinese: 收藏家购买了精美的画框，却退回了其中的名贵画作
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 买椟还珠 mean in English?
买椟还珠 (mǎi dú huán zhū) literally translates to “Buy case, return pearl” and is used to express “Valuing packaging over content”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 买椟还珠 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving valuing packaging over content.
What is the pinyin for 买椟还珠?
The pinyin pronunciation for 买椟还珠 is “mǎi dú huán zhū”.