指桑骂槐
指桑骂槐 (zhǐ sāng mà huái) literally means “point mulberry, curse locust tree” and expresses “indirect criticism of real target”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: zhi sang ma huai, zhi sang ma huai,指桑骂槐 meaning, 指桑骂槐 in english
Indirect criticism of real target
Pronunciation: zhǐ sāng mà huái
Literal meaning: Point mulberry, curse locust tree
Origin & Usage
This indirect idiom describes pointing at (指) mulberry trees (桑) while cursing (骂) locust trees (槐), originating from the Spring and Autumn period. It first appeared in diplomatic accounts where criticizing minor states actually delivered messages to major powers without direct confrontation. The botanical pairing was meaningful as both trees were common in ancient Chinese landscapes but served different purposes. During the Han Dynasty, it became standard terminology for indirect criticism in court politics. Modern usage describes the rhetorical strategy of addressing criticism to one target while actually intending it for another, particularly in hierarchical contexts where direct criticism might prove too risky or inappropriate.
When to Use
Situation: The manager criticized one employee while actually targeting another who understood the message
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 指桑骂槐 mean in English?
指桑骂槐 (zhǐ sāng mà huái) literally translates to “Point mulberry, curse locust tree” and is used to express “Indirect criticism of real target”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 指桑骂槐 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving indirect criticism of real target.
What is the pinyin for 指桑骂槐?
The pinyin pronunciation for 指桑骂槐 is “zhǐ sāng mà huái”.