马到成功
马到成功 (mǎ dào chéng gōng) literally means “success upon the horse's arrival” and expresses “achieve immediate success”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving success and perseverance. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: ma dao cheng gong, ma dao cheng gong,马到成功 meaning, 马到成功 in english
Achieve immediate success
Pronunciation: mǎ dào chéng gōng Literal meaning: Success upon the horse's arrival
Origin & Usage
This idiom originates from ancient Chinese military culture, where cavalry was crucial to victory. When war horses arrived at the battlefield, success was expected to follow swiftly. The phrase first appeared during the Yuan Dynasty in dramatic works describing military campaigns. The horse (马) symbolizes speed, power, and momentum, while 'arrival' (到) and 'success' (成功) emphasize immediate achievement. Today, it serves as a popular blessing for new ventures, examinations, and business endeavors, expressing hopes for swift and complete success.
When to Use
Situation: The team wished her success from the moment she began.
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
一心一意
yī xīn yī yì
Wholeheartedly; with undivided attention
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脚踏实地
jiǎo tà shí dì
Being practical and down-to-earth
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后来居上
hòu lái jū shàng
Latecomers surpass the early starters
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虎头蛇尾
hǔ tóu shé wěi
Strong start with weak finish
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海底捞针
hǎi dǐ lāo zhēn
Attempt an extremely difficult search
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废寝忘食
fèi qǐn wàng shí
So absorbed as to neglect basic needs
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东山再起
dōng shān zài qǐ
Make a comeback after setback or retirement
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得天独厚
dé tiān dú hòu
Uniquely blessed with natural advantages
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 马到成功 mean in English?
马到成功 (mǎ dào chéng gōng) literally translates to “Success upon the horse's arrival” and is used to express “Achieve immediate success”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Success & Perseverance category.
When is 马到成功 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving achieve immediate success.
What is the pinyin for 马到成功?
The pinyin pronunciation for 马到成功 is “mǎ dào chéng gōng”.