先见之明
先见之明 (xiān jiàn zhī míng) literally means “foresight and insight” and expresses “visionary foresight”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning.
Also searched as: xian jian zhi ming, xian jian zhi ming,先见之明 meaning, 先见之明 in english
Visionary foresight
Pronunciation: xiān jiàn zhī míng Literal meaning: Foresight and insight
Origin & Usage
The idiom 先见之明 (xiān jiàn zhī míng) finds its roots in the historical narrative of the Eastern Han Dynasty, as recorded in the 'Hou Han Shu' (后汉书). It is associated with Yang Biao (杨彪), a minister who lamented his lack of foresight compared to Jin Midi (金日磾), a figure known for his wisdom and foresight. The idiom is composed of four characters: 先 (xiān, first), 见 (jiàn, see), 之 (zhī, of), and 明 (míng, clarity or insight). It describes the ability to foresee developments and understand the implications of actions before they unfold. In modern usage, it is often used to praise individuals who demonstrate exceptional foresight and strategic planning, akin to a visionary who can anticipate future trends and challenges.
Examples
English: "His ability to predict market trends showed his remarkable foresight."
Chinese: 他的市场趋势预测能力展现了先见之明。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
融会贯通
róng huì guàn tōng
Master something completely
Learn more →
学海无涯
xué hǎi wú yá
Learning is limitless
Learn more →
知行合一
zhī xíng hé yī
Practice what you know
Learn more →
举一反三
jǔ yī fǎn sān
Learn many from one example
Learn more →
温故知新
wēn gù zhī xīn
Learn new through studying old
Learn more →
画龙点睛
huà lóng diǎn jīng
Add crucial finishing touch
Learn more →
读万卷书
dú wàn juǎn shū
Read extensively for knowledge
Learn more →
抛砖引玉
pāo zhuān yǐn yù
Offer modest view to inspire better
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 先见之明 mean in English?
先见之明 (xiān jiàn zhī míng) literally translates to “Foresight and insight” and is used to express “Visionary foresight”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 先见之明 used?
Situation: His ability to predict market trends showed his remarkable foresight.
What is the pinyin for 先见之明?
The pinyin pronunciation for 先见之明 is “xiān jiàn zhī míng”.