自以为是
自以为是 (zì yǐ wéi shì) literally means “considering oneself to be right” and expresses “self-righteous; opinionated”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships and character.
Also searched as: zi yi wei shi, zi yi wei shi,自以为是 meaning, 自以为是 in english
Self-righteous; opinionated
Pronunciation: zì yǐ wéi shì Literal meaning: Considering oneself to be right
Origin & Usage
This idiom appears in the ancient Daoist text 'Zhuangzi' and was used by Confucius to criticize those who considered themselves (自以为) always right (是). The phrase critiques the dangerous combination of confidence and closed-mindedness. In Chinese philosophical tradition, true wisdom requires humility and openness to correction. The idiom warns against the intellectual arrogance that prevents growth and learning. Modern usage describes someone who is opinionated, self-righteous, or unwilling to consider alternative viewpoints.
Examples
English: "His arrogance prevents him from accepting any criticism."
Chinese: 他自以为是，无法接受任何批评。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
Learn more →
一模一样
yī mú yī yàng
Exactly identical
Learn more →
以心换心
yǐ xīn huàn xīn
Treat others as yourself
Learn more →
海纳百川
hǎi nà bǎi chuān
Accept all with open mind
Learn more →
以和为贵
yǐ hé wéi guì
Value harmony above all
Learn more →
同舟共济
tóng zhōu gòng jì
Face challenges together
Learn more →
风雨同舟
fēng yǔ tóng zhōu
Share hardships together
Learn more →
春风化雨
chūn fēng huà yǔ
Gentle, nurturing influence
Learn more →
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 自以为是 mean in English?
自以为是 (zì yǐ wéi shì) literally translates to “Considering oneself to be right” and is used to express “Self-righteous; opinionated”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Relationships & Character category.
When is 自以为是 used?
Situation: His arrogance prevents him from accepting any criticism.
What is the pinyin for 自以为是?
The pinyin pronunciation for 自以为是 is “zì yǐ wéi shì”.