虎踞龙盘
虎踞龙盘 (hǔ jù lóng pán) literally means “tiger crouch dragon coil” and expresses “commanding imposing strategic position”. 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: hu ju long pan, hu ju long pan,虎踞龙盘 meaning, 虎踞龙盘 in english
Commanding imposing strategic position
Pronunciation: hǔ jù lóng pán Literal meaning: Tiger crouch dragon coil
Origin & Usage
Three Kingdoms period geographers first described Nanjing's terrain as having tigers crouching (虎踞) and dragons coiling (龙盘). The image combined earth's greatest predator with its supreme mythical creature to capture the city's naturally commanding position. Tang Dynasty writers expanded it to describe any position of overwhelming natural advantage. Modern strategic thinking still values such inherent positional strength.
When to Use
Situation: The ancient fortress commanded the mountain pass with intimidating strategic position
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 虎踞龙盘 mean in English?
虎踞龙盘 (hǔ jù lóng pán) literally translates to “Tiger crouch dragon coil” and is used to express “Commanding imposing strategic position”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 虎踞龙盘 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving commanding imposing strategic position.
What is the pinyin for 虎踞龙盘?
The pinyin pronunciation for 虎踞龙盘 is “hǔ jù lóng pán”.