步步为营
步步为营 (bù bù wéi yíng) literally means “each step make camp” and expresses “advance methodically with caution”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: bu bu wei ying, bu bu wei ying,步步为营 meaning, 步步为营 in english
Advance methodically with caution
Pronunciation: bù bù wéi yíng
Literal meaning: Each step make camp
Origin & Usage
This strategic approach emerged from Han Dynasty military manuals, describing armies that established (为) a secure camp (营) with each step (步步) of their advance. The tactic gained fame during the Three Kingdoms period when general Cao Cao used it to campaign through difficult terrain. Unlike rapid deployment, it emphasized consolidation of gains before further advancement. Historical texts praise commanders who secured supply lines and fortified positions rather than overextending. During the Ming Dynasty, it became shorthand for prudent administration in frontier governance. Modern applications span from business expansion strategies to personal career advancement, advocating methodical progress where each position becomes a foundation for the next.
Examples
English: "The company expanded cautiously, securing each market before moving to the next"
Chinese: 公司谨慎扩张，在进军下一个市场前先稳固每一个市场
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
万无一失
wàn wú yī shī
Absolutely sure; foolproof
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密不透风
mì bù tòu fēng
Airtight; impenetrable
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天罗地网
tiān luó dì wǎng
Inescapable net; dragnet
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步步高升
bù bù gāo shēng
Advance steadily; continuous promotion
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势在必行
shì zài bì xíng
Be imperative; must be done
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稳扎稳打
wěn zhā wěn dǎ
Proceed steadily; consolidate before advancing
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欲擒故纵
yù qín gù zòng
Give slack before tightening; let go to catch
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围魏救赵
wéi wèi jiù zhào
Relieve pressure by attacking the source
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 步步为营 mean in English?
步步为营 (bù bù wéi yíng) literally translates to “Each step make camp” and is used to express “Advance methodically with caution”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 步步为营 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving advance methodically with caution.
What is the pinyin for 步步为营?
The pinyin pronunciation for 步步为营 is “bù bù wéi yíng”.