按部就班
按部就班 (àn bù jiù bān) literally means “follow departments, go to classes” and expresses “follow established procedures; be methodical”. 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: an bu jiu ban, an bu jiu ban,按部就班 meaning, 按部就班 in english
Follow established procedures; be methodical
Pronunciation: àn bù jiù bān
Literal meaning: Follow departments, go to classes
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes following (按) departments (部) and going to (就) classes (班). Originally describing bureaucratic procedures, it came to mean following established order. The phrase values systematic approaches over improvisation. Modern usage describes following proper procedures and sequences, working methodically rather than chaotically, though sometimes criticizes excessive rigidity.
Examples
English: "The project proceeded according to the established process."
Chinese: 项目按部就班地推进。
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 按部就班 mean in English?
按部就班 (àn bù jiù bān) literally translates to “Follow departments, go to classes” and is used to express “Follow established procedures; be methodical”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 按部就班 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving follow established procedures; be methodical.
What is the pinyin for 按部就班?
The pinyin pronunciation for 按部就班 is “àn bù jiù bān”.