先入为主
先入为主 (xiān rù wéi zhǔ) literally means “first impressions dominate” and expresses “preconceived notions”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom and learning.
Also searched as: xian ru wei zhu, xian ru wei zhu,先入为主 meaning, 先入为主 in english
Preconceived notions
Pronunciation: xiān rù wéi zhǔ Literal meaning: First impressions dominate
Origin & Usage
The idiom 先入为主 (xiān rù wéi zhǔ) originates from a story in the Han dynasty, as recorded in the 'Book of Han' (《汉书》). During the reign of Emperor Ai, officials like Dong Xian, Sun Chong, and Xi Fu Gong gained the emperor's favor. Despite warnings from the chancellor Wang Jia about their potential to cause trouble, the emperor trusted them. Xi Fu Gong manipulated the emperor by falsely claiming that the Xiongnu were planning an invasion, leading the emperor to almost make a hasty military decision. This idiom warns against letting initial impressions (先入, first enter) dominate one's judgment (为主, become the main). It highlights the danger of allowing first impressions to cloud one's ability to accept new information. In modern usage, it serves as a caution against preconceived notions and emphasizes the importance of open-mindedness.
Examples
English: "In negotiations, establishing a strong initial position is crucial."
Chinese: 在谈判中，先入为主的立场至关重要。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
融会贯通
róng huì guàn tōng
Master something completely
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学海无涯
xué hǎi wú yá
Learning is limitless
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知行合一
zhī xíng hé yī
Practice what you know
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举一反三
jǔ yī fǎn sān
Learn many from one example
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温故知新
wēn gù zhī xīn
Learn new through studying old
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画龙点睛
huà lóng diǎn jīng
Add crucial finishing touch
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读万卷书
dú wàn juǎn shū
Read extensively for knowledge
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抛砖引玉
pāo zhuān yǐn yù
Offer modest view to inspire better
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 先入为主 mean in English?
先入为主 (xiān rù wéi zhǔ) literally translates to “First impressions dominate” and is used to express “Preconceived notions”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Wisdom & Learning category.
When is 先入为主 used?
Situation: In negotiations, establishing a strong initial position is crucial.
What is the pinyin for 先入为主?
The pinyin pronunciation for 先入为主 is “xiān rù wéi zhǔ”.