背道而驰
背道而驰 (bèi dào ér chí) literally means “gallop in opposite direction” and expresses “misguided actions”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving life philosophy.
Also searched as: bei dao er chi, bei dao er chi,背道而驰 meaning, 背道而驰 in english
Misguided actions
Pronunciation: bèi dào ér chí Literal meaning: Gallop in opposite direction
Origin & Usage
The idiom 背道而驰 (bèi dào ér chí) originates from a story during the Warring States period. A minister named Ji Liang (季梁) was tasked with a diplomatic mission when he heard of King Anxi of Wei's (魏安釐王) plan to attack the Zhao state. Ji Liang returned to warn the king, using the analogy of a traveler heading north while intending to reach the southern state of Chu. Despite having a fast horse and an experienced driver, the traveler was moving in the wrong direction, thus getting further from his goal. The idiom (背, back; 道, path; 而, and; 驰, gallop) illustrates the futility of pursuing a goal with misguided actions. In modern usage, it highlights the importance of aligning one's actions with their objectives to avoid counterproductive efforts.
Examples
English: "Their opinions on the matter are so different that they seem to be running in opposite directions."
Chinese: 他们在这个问题上的看法背道而驰。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about life philosophy
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 背道而驰 mean in English?
背道而驰 (bèi dào ér chí) literally translates to “Gallop in opposite direction” and is used to express “Misguided actions”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Life Philosophy category.
When is 背道而驰 used?
Situation: Their opinions on the matter are so different that they seem to be running in opposite directions.
What is the pinyin for 背道而驰?
The pinyin pronunciation for 背道而驰 is “bèi dào ér chí”.