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. It originates from ancient Chinese literature and remains commonly used in modern Mandarin.
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.
When to Use
Situation: His arrogance prevents him from accepting any criticism.
Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about relationships & character
不远千里
bù yuǎn qiān lǐ
Willingly travel far; make great efforts
Learn more →
朝思暮想
zhāo sī mù xiǎng
Think about constantly; yearn for
Learn more →
魂牵梦萦
hún qiān mèng yíng
Yearn day and night
Learn more →
恋恋不舍
liàn liàn bù shě
Be deeply reluctant to leave
Learn more →
依依不舍
yī yī bù shě
Be reluctant to part
Learn more →
难分难舍
nán fēn nán shě
Be inseparable; hate to part
Learn more →
海枯石烂
hǎi kū shí làn
Until the end of time; eternal love
Learn more →
一见钟情
yī jiàn zhōng qíng
Love at first sight
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: This idiom applies when describing situations involving self-righteous; opinionated.
What is the pinyin for 自以为是?
The pinyin pronunciation for 自以为是 is “zì yǐ wéi shì”.