不攻自破
不攻自破 (bù gōng zì pò) literally means “without attack self-collapse” and expresses “collapse without being attacked; self-defeating”. 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 gong zi po, bu gong zi po,不攻自破 meaning, 不攻自破 in english
Collapse without being attacked; self-defeating
Pronunciation: bù gōng zì pò
Literal meaning: Without attack self-collapse
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes something collapsing (破) by itself (自) without (不) attack (攻). Originally a military term for fortifications so weak they crumble without assault, it evolved to describe arguments or positions that are inherently unsustainable. The phrase appeared in strategy texts discussing situations where patience defeats opponents naturally. Modern usage describes weak arguments, flawed plans, or unstable situations that fail without external intervention.
Examples
English: "His flimsy argument fell apart without anyone even challenging it."
Chinese: 他站不住脚的论点不攻自破。
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 不攻自破 mean in English?
不攻自破 (bù gōng zì pò) literally translates to “Without attack self-collapse” and is used to express “Collapse without being attacked; self-defeating”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 不攻自破 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving collapse without being attacked; self-defeating.
What is the pinyin for 不攻自破?
The pinyin pronunciation for 不攻自破 is “bù gōng zì pò”.