颐指气使
颐指气使 (yí zhǐ qì shǐ) literally means “command with chin gestures and breath” and expresses “be domineering and arrogant”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
Also searched as: yi zhi qi shi, yi zhi qi shi,颐指气使 meaning, 颐指气使 in english
Be domineering and arrogant
Pronunciation: yí zhǐ qì shǐ
Literal meaning: Command with chin gestures and breath
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes commanding others with chin (颐) gestures (指) and breathing (气) to direct (使). It depicts someone so arrogant they give orders through mere facial expressions and sighs rather than words. This behavior was associated with tyrannical masters commanding servants. Modern usage criticizes bossy, imperious behavior that treats others as beneath verbal communication.
Examples
English: "The arrogant manager treated employees like servants."
Chinese: 傲慢的经理颐指气使地对待员工。
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 颐指气使 mean in English?
颐指气使 (yí zhǐ qì shǐ) literally translates to “Command with chin gestures and breath” and is used to express “Be domineering and arrogant”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 颐指气使 used?
Situation: This idiom applies when describing situations involving be domineering and arrogant.
What is the pinyin for 颐指气使?
The pinyin pronunciation for 颐指气使 is “yí zhǐ qì shǐ”.