金戈铁马
金戈铁马 (jīn gē tiě mǎ) literally means “gold spears iron horses” and expresses “magnificent military might and valor”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
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Magnificent military might and valor
Pronunciation: jīn gē tiě mǎ
Literal meaning: Gold spears iron horses
Origin & Usage
This martial idiom paints a scene of golden (金) spears (戈) and iron (铁) horses (马), first appearing in Li Bai's famous Tang Dynasty poetry describing frontier warfare. The phrase captured both the visual brilliance of bronze weapons and the thundering power of cavalry forces. During the Song Dynasty, as China faced nomadic invasions, it gained broader significance as a symbol of national defense and martial glory. The contrasting metals - precious gold and sturdy iron - created a perfect metaphor for military might combining elite weaponry with powerful mobility. Modern usage spans from historical epics to competitive business strategies, describing approaches that combine precision with overwhelming force.
When to Use
Situation: The historical film vividly portrayed the grandeur and might of ancient military campaigns
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 金戈铁马 mean in English?
金戈铁马 (jīn gē tiě mǎ) literally translates to “Gold spears iron horses” and is used to express “Magnificent military might and valor”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 金戈铁马 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving magnificent military might and valor.
What is the pinyin for 金戈铁马?
The pinyin pronunciation for 金戈铁马 is “jīn gē tiě mǎ”.