不求甚解
不求甚解 (bù qiú shèn jiě) literally means “not seeking thorough understanding” and expresses “content with superficial understanding”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: bu qiu shen jie, bu qiu shen jie,不求甚解 meaning, 不求甚解 in english
Content with superficial understanding
Pronunciation: bù qiú shèn jiě
Literal meaning: Not seeking thorough understanding
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes not (不) seeking (求) thorough (甚) understanding (解). It originated from Tao Yuanming's essay where he described his reading style as enjoying books without demanding deep understanding of every detail. This can be positive (appreciating the gestalt) or negative (superficiality). Modern usage often criticizes shallow engagement with material, though it sometimes positively describes a relaxed, enjoyment-focused approach to reading.
Examples
English: "His superficial reading left him with only a shallow understanding."
Chinese: 他浅尝辄止的阅读让他不求甚解。
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Work with great ease; have complete mastery
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Be very familiar with; handle with expertise
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Be experienced; find something easy due to familiarity
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Perfectly appropriate; fitting exactly
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恰到好处
qià dào hǎo chù
Just right; perfectly appropriate
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shì kě ér zhǐ
Stop at the right point; practice moderation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 不求甚解 mean in English?
不求甚解 (bù qiú shèn jiě) literally translates to “Not seeking thorough understanding” and is used to express “Content with superficial understanding”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 不求甚解 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving content with superficial understanding.
What is the pinyin for 不求甚解?
The pinyin pronunciation for 不求甚解 is “bù qiú shèn jiě”.