循序渐进
循序渐进 (xún xù jiàn jìn) literally means “follow order and advance gradually” and expresses “progress step by step”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: xun xu jian jin, xun xu jian jin,循序渐进 meaning, 循序渐进 in english
Progress step by step
Pronunciation: xún xù jiàn jìn Literal meaning: Follow order and advance gradually
Origin & Usage
This idiom appears in 'The Analects of Confucius' and was elaborated upon by Zhu Xi, the great Song Dynasty Neo-Confucian scholar. It emphasizes following (循) a proper sequence (序) while advancing (进) gradually (渐). The phrase reflects the Confucian educational philosophy that learning must proceed systematically, building upon foundations before advancing to complex concepts. It counters the temptation to skip steps or rush progress. Modern usage extends to any field requiring methodical advancement, from education to career development to skill acquisition.
When to Use
Situation: Learning a language requires a step-by-step approach.
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
南辕北辙
nán yuán běi zhé
Actions contrary to one's goals
Learn more →
耳目一新
ěr mù yī xīn
A refreshing new experience
Learn more →
恍然大悟
huǎng rán dà wù
Sudden complete understanding after confusion
Learn more →
邯郸学步
hán dān xué bù
Lose abilities through misguided imitation
Learn more →
归根到底
guī gēn dào dǐ
Fundamentally or in the final analysis
Learn more →
瓜田李下
guā tián lǐ xià
Avoid situations that invite suspicion
Learn more →
得不偿失
dé bù cháng shī
Gains not worth the cost or sacrifice
Learn more →
道听途说
dào tīng tú shuō
Unreliable information from casual hearsay
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 循序渐进 mean in English?
循序渐进 (xún xù jiàn jìn) literally translates to “Follow order and advance gradually” and is used to express “Progress step by step”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 循序渐进 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving progress step by step.
What is the pinyin for 循序渐进?
The pinyin pronunciation for 循序渐进 is “xún xù jiàn jìn”.