当机立断
当机立断 (dāng jī lì duàn) literally means “face opportunity immediately decide” and expresses “make a prompt decision”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action.
Also searched as: dang ji li duan, dang ji li duan,当机立断 meaning, 当机立断 in english
Make a prompt decision
Pronunciation: dāng jī lì duàn Literal meaning: Face opportunity immediately decide
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes facing (当) an opportunity or moment (机) and immediately (立) deciding (断). It praises decisive action that seizes the moment without hesitation. The phrase originated in military strategy texts emphasizing the importance of timely decisions. Hesitation in critical moments can be fatal. Modern usage praises quick, decisive action in time-sensitive situations, particularly in leadership, crisis management, and competitive environments.
Examples
English: "The commander made a swift decision in the crisis."
Chinese: 指挥官在危机中当机立断。
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jí yè chéng qiú
Small efforts make big results
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胸有成竹
xiōng yǒu chéng zhú
Have clear plan beforehand
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举重若轻
jǔ zhòng ruò qīng
Make difficult look easy
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bào xīn jiù huǒ
Make situation worse
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bù bù wéi yíng
Advance methodically with caution
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tuì bì sān shè
Make concessions to avoid conflict
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 当机立断 mean in English?
当机立断 (dāng jī lì duàn) literally translates to “Face opportunity immediately decide” and is used to express “Make a prompt decision”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 当机立断 used?
Situation: The commander made a swift decision in the crisis.
What is the pinyin for 当机立断?
The pinyin pronunciation for 当机立断 is “dāng jī lì duàn”.