后顾之忧
后顾之忧 (hòu gù zhī yōu) literally means “backward glance's worry” and expresses “concerns about hidden vulnerabilities”. 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: hou gu zhi you, hou gu zhi you,后顾之忧 meaning, 后顾之忧 in english
Concerns about hidden vulnerabilities
Pronunciation: hòu gù zhī yōu Literal meaning: Backward glance's worry
Origin & Usage
Ancient military strategists coined this phrase about worries (忧) from looking back (后顾), emphasizing how unaddressed vulnerabilities can paralyze forward progress. Han Dynasty political writers expanded it beyond warfare to describe any situation where background concerns prevent bold action. The psychological insight remains relevant - true confidence requires securing one's rear position.
When to Use
Situation: The general secured supply lines to prevent vulnerability during the advance
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 后顾之忧 mean in English?
后顾之忧 (hòu gù zhī yōu) literally translates to “Backward glance's worry” and is used to express “Concerns about hidden vulnerabilities”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 后顾之忧 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving concerns about hidden vulnerabilities.
What is the pinyin for 后顾之忧?
The pinyin pronunciation for 后顾之忧 is “hòu gù zhī yōu”.