推波助澜
推波助澜 (tuī bō zhù lán) literally means “push waves, aid ripples” and expresses “amplifying existing trends or momentum”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: tui bo zhu lan, tui bo zhu lan,推波助澜 meaning, 推波助澜 in english
Amplifying existing trends or momentum
Pronunciation: tuī bō zhù lán
Literal meaning: Push waves, aid ripples
Origin & Usage
This amplifying idiom describes pushing (推) waves (波) and helping (助) ripples (澜), originating from Southern Dynasty poetry. It initially described how winds intensify natural water movements, creating a powerful metaphor for augmenting existing momentum. During the Tang Dynasty, political commentators adopted it to describe how minor policy adjustments could magnify ongoing social trends. The water imagery was particularly effective as ripples naturally expand from central disturbances. Unlike terms for creating change, it specifically addresses enhancing existing movements. Modern usage describes intentionally adding force to developing situations or trends, particularly strategic interventions that multiply rather than initiate momentum, suggesting that timing contributions to coincide with natural developments often maximizes impact.
When to Use
Situation: The celebrity's endorsement accelerated the already growing popularity of the product
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 推波助澜 mean in English?
推波助澜 (tuī bō zhù lán) literally translates to “Push waves, aid ripples” and is used to express “Amplifying existing trends or momentum”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 推波助澜 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving amplifying existing trends or momentum.
What is the pinyin for 推波助澜?
The pinyin pronunciation for 推波助澜 is “tuī bō zhù lán”.