不屑一顾
不屑一顾 (bù xiè yī gù) literally means “not deign one glance” and expresses “disdainfully dismiss as beneath consideration”. 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: bu xie yi gu, bu xie yi gu,不屑一顾 meaning, 不屑一顾 in english
Disdainfully dismiss as beneath consideration
Pronunciation: bù xiè yī gù Literal meaning: Not deign one glance
Origin & Usage
The 'Records of the Grand Historian' captures a haughty Jin Kingdom minister's refusal (不屑) to give even a single glance (一顾) at Wei's alliance proposal. Tang Dynasty writers embraced it as the ultimate expression of disdain, where even momentary attention is deemed too generous. Modern usage often carries a cautionary note about the dangers of such categorical dismissal.
When to Use
Situation: The established professor dismissed the innovative theory without serious consideration
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 不屑一顾 mean in English?
不屑一顾 (bù xiè yī gù) literally translates to “Not deign one glance” and is used to express “Disdainfully dismiss as beneath consideration”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 不屑一顾 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving disdainfully dismiss as beneath consideration.
What is the pinyin for 不屑一顾?
The pinyin pronunciation for 不屑一顾 is “bù xiè yī gù”.