不劳而获

Pronunciation: bù láo ér huò Literal meaning: Reap without sowing

Origin & Usage

Commonly used in classical Chinese, the idiom 不劳而获 (bù láo ér huò) conveys the idea of reaping benefits without putting in the necessary work. The phrase is often used to criticize those who gain rewards or profits through the efforts of others rather than their own labor. The idiom paints a vivid image of someone who enjoys the harvest (获, reap) without having sown the seeds (劳, labor). In modern contexts, it is frequently applied to situations where individuals or groups exploit others' hard work for personal gain, such as in cases of corruption or exploitation. The idiom serves as a reminder of the value of hard work and the ethical implications of benefiting from others' efforts without contributing oneself.

Examples

English: "He expected to receive a promotion without putting in any hard work."

Chinese: 他期望不劳而获，得到晋升。