东施效颦
东施效颦 (dōng shī xiào pín) literally means “dongshi imitates xishi's frown” and expresses “failed imitation lacking understanding”. 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: dong shi xiao pin, dong shi xiao pin,东施效颦 meaning, 东施效颦 in english
Failed imitation lacking understanding
Pronunciation: dōng shī xiào pín
Literal meaning: Dongshi imitates Xishi's frown
Origin & Usage
This misguided idiom describes how Dongshi (东施), an ugly woman, imitated the frown (效颦) of Xishi, a legendary beauty, originating from Taoist text 'Zhuangzi' during the Warring States period. When beautiful Xishi frowned while suffering heart pain, it enhanced her beauty; when Dongshi imitated without understanding the context, she repelled villagers. The story gained prominence during the Han Dynasty as a caution against superficial imitation. Unlike terms for simple copying, it specifically addresses imitating external form without understanding essence or context. Modern usage criticizes blind imitation that fails because the imitator doesn't understand the underlying principles or lacks the inherent qualities that made the original successful.
When to Use
Situation: The new restaurant awkwardly copied successful establishments without understanding their appeal
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 东施效颦 mean in English?
东施效颦 (dōng shī xiào pín) literally translates to “Dongshi imitates Xishi's frown” and is used to express “Failed imitation lacking understanding”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 东施效颦 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving failed imitation lacking understanding.
What is the pinyin for 东施效颦?
The pinyin pronunciation for 东施效颦 is “dōng shī xiào pín”.