七手八脚
七手八脚 (qī shǒu bā jiǎo) literally means “seven hands eight feet” and expresses “many people busily working together in disorder”. 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: qi shou ba jiao, qi shou ba jiao,七手八脚 meaning, 七手八脚 in english
Many people busily working together in disorder
Pronunciation: qī shǒu bā jiǎo Literal meaning: Seven hands eight feet
Origin & Usage
Tang Dynasty temple construction projects gave birth to this vivid phrase describing numerous hands (七手) and feet (八脚) moving simultaneously. The image of multiple workers in confined spaces, creating organized chaos, resonated through the ages. Song Dynasty writers found humor in these scenes of well-intended but disorderly group efforts. Today, from emergency rooms to crisis management teams, it captures the energy of multiple people working together with more enthusiasm than coordination.
When to Use
Situation: The emergency room staff moved in chaotic coordination to save the accident victim
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 七手八脚 mean in English?
七手八脚 (qī shǒu bā jiǎo) literally translates to “Seven hands eight feet” and is used to express “Many people busily working together in disorder”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 七手八脚 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving many people busily working together in disorder.
What is the pinyin for 七手八脚?
The pinyin pronunciation for 七手八脚 is “qī shǒu bā jiǎo”.