楚材晋用
楚材晋用 (chǔ cái jìn yòng) literally means “chu talent jin use” and expresses “recruit talent from rival organization”. 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: chu cai jin yong, chu cai jin yong,楚材晋用 meaning, 楚材晋用 in english
Recruit talent from rival organization
Pronunciation: chǔ cái jìn yòng Literal meaning: Chu talent Jin use
Origin & Usage
The strategic brilliance of the Jin state during the Spring and Autumn period gave us this phrase about utilizing Chu state's talent (楚材). Jin's systematic recruitment of capable individuals from rival Chu became a template for organizational growth through talent acquisition. Han Dynasty historians identified this strategy as key to Jin's rise to power. Modern corporations continue this ancient practice of strengthening themselves while weakening competitors through strategic hiring.
When to Use
Situation: The rival corporation recruited top engineers from its struggling competitor
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
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dé xīn yìng shǒu
Work with great ease; have complete mastery
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jià qīng jiù shú
Be very familiar with; handle with expertise
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Be experienced; find something easy due to familiarity
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游刃有余
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Handle with ease; have skill to spare
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Have a well-thought-out plan; be confident
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恰如其分
qià rú qí fèn
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 楚材晋用 mean in English?
楚材晋用 (chǔ cái jìn yòng) literally translates to “Chu talent Jin use” and is used to express “Recruit talent from rival organization”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 楚材晋用 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving recruit talent from rival organization.
What is the pinyin for 楚材晋用?
The pinyin pronunciation for 楚材晋用 is “chǔ cái jìn yòng”.