斩钉截铁
斩钉截铁 (zhǎn dīng jié tiě) literally means “chop nail cut iron” and expresses “decisively and firmly without hesitation”. 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: zhan ding jie tie, zhan ding jie tie,斩钉截铁 meaning, 斩钉截铁 in english
Decisively and firmly without hesitation
Pronunciation: zhǎn dīng jié tiě Literal meaning: Chop nail cut iron
Origin & Usage
Born in the workshops of Tang Dynasty metalworkers, this phrase captures the clean, decisive action of chopping nails (斩钉) and cutting iron (截铁). The imagery demands absolute commitment - hesitation ruins both material and tools. Song Dynasty administrators adopted it to describe unequivocal decision-making, where clarity outweighs nuance. In contemporary usage, it describes decisions and actions that, like cutting metal, must be executed with singular purpose and no possibility of reversal.
When to Use
Situation: The judge made a decisive ruling that left no room for appeal or interpretation
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To be true to one's word
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Seek quick success and immediate benefit
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Maintain absolute silence about sensitive matter
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Talk complete nonsense without any foundation
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Commanding imposing strategic position
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 斩钉截铁 mean in English?
斩钉截铁 (zhǎn dīng jié tiě) literally translates to “Chop nail cut iron” and is used to express “Decisively and firmly without hesitation”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 斩钉截铁 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving decisively and firmly without hesitation.
What is the pinyin for 斩钉截铁?
The pinyin pronunciation for 斩钉截铁 is “zhǎn dīng jié tiě”.