爱毛反裘

Pronunciation: ài máo fǎn qiú Literal meaning: Love fur turn inside-out fur coat

Origin & Usage

The Warring States period text 'Lü's Spring and Autumn Annals' introduces this image of loving fur (爱毛) so much that one turns a fur coat inside out (反裘) to examine its foundation. Han Dynasty scholars transformed it into a metaphor for valuing origins over appearances. In northern China, where fur provided essential winter protection, the metaphor carried particular weight. Today it describes honoring foundations and origins, particularly in expressing gratitude toward those who provided essential knowledge enabling later success.

Examples

English: "Despite his formal training, he respected the folk traditions of his hometown artisans"

Chinese: 尽管受过正规训练，他仍尊重家乡民间工匠的传统