另辟蹊径
另辟蹊径 (lìng pì xī jìng) literally means “separately open a side path” and expresses “find an alternative approach; think outside the box”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy and action.
Also searched as: ling pi xi jing, ling pi xi jing,另辟蹊径 meaning, 另辟蹊径 in english
Find an alternative approach; think outside the box
Pronunciation: lìng pì xī jìng Literal meaning: Separately open a side path
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes separately (另) opening (辟) a side path (蹊径) - finding an alternative route. It praises creative problem-solving that avoids direct confrontation with obstacles by discovering new approaches. The phrase appeared in texts praising innovative thinkers who found unexpected solutions. Modern usage celebrates creative thinking, unconventional strategies, and innovative approaches that succeed by departing from established methods.
Examples
English: "Instead of competing directly, she found an innovative alternative approach."
Chinese: 她没有直接竞争，而是另辟蹊径。
Related Chinese Idioms
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胸有成竹
xiōng yǒu chéng zhú
Have clear plan beforehand
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披沙拣金
pī shā jiǎn jīn
Find value among worthless
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步步为营
bù bù wéi yíng
Advance methodically with caution
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退避三舍
tuì bì sān shè
Make concessions to avoid conflict
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旁敲侧击
páng qiāo cè jī
Approach indirectly to achieve goal
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暗度陈仓
àn dù chén cāng
Achieve secretly through misdirection
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釜底抽薪
fǔ dǐ chōu xīn
Eliminate root cause of problem
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 另辟蹊径 mean in English?
另辟蹊径 (lìng pì xī jìng) literally translates to “Separately open a side path” and is used to express “Find an alternative approach; think outside the box”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Strategy & Action category.
When is 另辟蹊径 used?
Situation: Instead of competing directly, she found an innovative alternative approach.
What is the pinyin for 另辟蹊径?
The pinyin pronunciation for 另辟蹊径 is “lìng pì xī jìng”.