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. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
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。
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
万无一失
wàn wú yī shī
Absolutely sure; foolproof
Learn more →
密不透风
mì bù tòu fēng
Airtight; impenetrable
Learn more →
天罗地网
tiān luó dì wǎng
Inescapable net; dragnet
Learn more →
势在必行
shì zài bì xíng
Be imperative; must be done
Learn more →
稳扎稳打
wěn zhā wěn dǎ
Proceed steadily; consolidate before advancing
Learn more →
欲速不达
yù sù bù dá
Haste makes waste; more haste less speed
Learn more →
不远千里
bù yuǎn qiān lǐ
Willingly travel far; make great efforts
Learn more →
欲擒故纵
yù qín gù zòng
Give slack before tightening; let go to catch
Learn more →
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: This idiom applies when describing situations involving make a prompt decision.
What is the pinyin for 当机立断?
The pinyin pronunciation for 当机立断 is “dāng jī lì duàn”.