变本加厉
变本加厉 (biàn běn jiā lì) literally means “change origin add severity” and expresses “get worse; intensify negatively”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: bian ben jia li, bian ben jia li,变本加厉 meaning, 变本加厉 in english
Get worse; intensify negatively
Pronunciation: biàn běn jiā lì
Literal meaning: Change origin add severity
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes change (变) from the original (本) state by adding (加) severity (厉). It depicts situations that worsen instead of improving, with problems intensifying rather than resolving. The phrase appeared in historical texts describing officials whose corruption deepened over time. It captures the frustration when intervention fails and conditions deteriorate. Modern usage describes any situation, behavior, or problem that escalates rather than ameliorates despite awareness or attempts at correction.
Examples
English: "Instead of improving, his behavior only got worse."
Chinese: 他的行为不但没有改善，反而变本加厉。
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 变本加厉 mean in English?
变本加厉 (biàn běn jiā lì) literally translates to “Change origin add severity” and is used to express “Get worse; intensify negatively”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 变本加厉 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving get worse; intensify negatively.
What is the pinyin for 变本加厉?
The pinyin pronunciation for 变本加厉 is “biàn běn jiā lì”.