避实就虚
避实就虚 (bì shí jiù xū) literally means “avoid the strong, attack the weak” and expresses “strategic evasion”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action.
Also searched as: bi shi jiu xu, bi shi jiu xu,避实就虚 meaning, 避实就虚 in english
Strategic evasion
Pronunciation: bì shí jiù xū Literal meaning: Avoid the strong, attack the weak
Origin & Usage
The idiom 避实就虚 (bì shí jiù xū) originates from the ancient Chinese military text, 《孙子兵法》 (The Art of War) by Sun Tzu, specifically from the chapter on '虚实' (Xū Shí, 'Weak and Strong Points'). Sun Tzu, a renowned military strategist from the Spring and Autumn period, advised that in warfare, one should avoid (避, bì) the enemy's strong points (实, shí) and attack (就, jiù) their weak points (虚, xū). This strategic principle emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, akin to water flowing around obstacles. In modern usage, the idiom extends beyond military contexts to describe avoiding substantial issues and focusing on less critical matters, often implying evasiveness or strategic maneuvering.
Examples
English: "In negotiations, he skillfully sidesteps direct confrontation to find a more advantageous position."
Chinese: 在谈判中，他巧妙地避实就虚，寻找更有利的位置。
Related Chinese Idioms
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胸有成竹
xiōng yǒu chéng zhú
Have clear plan beforehand
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步步为营
bù bù wéi yíng
Advance methodically with caution
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退避三舍
tuì bì sān shè
Make concessions to avoid conflict
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旁敲侧击
páng qiāo cè jī
Approach indirectly to achieve goal
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暗度陈仓
àn dù chén cāng
Achieve secretly through misdirection
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釜底抽薪
fǔ dǐ chōu xīn
Eliminate root cause of problem
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推波助澜
tuī bō zhù lán
Amplifying existing trends or momentum
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鹬蚌相争
yù bàng xiāng zhēng
Mutual conflict benefits third party
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 避实就虚 mean in English?
避实就虚 (bì shí jiù xū) literally translates to “Avoid the strong, attack the weak” and is used to express “Strategic evasion”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 避实就虚 used?
Situation: In negotiations, he skillfully sidesteps direct confrontation to find a more advantageous position.
What is the pinyin for 避实就虚?
The pinyin pronunciation for 避实就虚 is “bì shí jiù xū”.