独当一面(獨當一面)
独当一面 (dú dāng yī miàn) literally means “alone handle one side”and expresses “capable of taking charge independently”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving success & perseverance.
Also searched as: du dang yi mian, du dang yi mian,独当一面 meaning, 独当一面 in english
Pronunciation: dú dāng yī miàn Literal meaning: Alone handle one side
Origin & Usage
This idiom originates from military contexts in the Han Dynasty, describing generals capable of independently (独) managing (当) one front or flank (一面) of battle. The phrase recognized the rare ability to take full responsibility for a significant area without supervision. It evolved to praise anyone capable of handling substantial responsibility independently. Modern usage commonly describes professionals who have matured to the point of managing projects, departments, or situations without requiring guidance.
When to Use
Situation: After years of training, she can now manage the department independently.
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about success & perseverance
匠心独运
jiàng xīn dú yùn
Apply creative genius; show ingenuity
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独具匠心
dú jù jiàng xīn
Show great ingenuity; have original design
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别具一格
bié jù yī gé
Have unique style; be distinctive
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独树一帜
dú shù yī zhì
Be unique; have distinctive style
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独占鳌头
dú zhàn áo tóu
Come first; win top honors
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出神入化
chū shén rù huà
Reach supernatural skill level
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天罗地网
tiān luó dì wǎng
Inescapable net; dragnet
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功成名就
gōng chéng míng jiù
Achieve success and fame
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 独当一面 mean in English?
独当一面 (dú dāng yī miàn) literally translates to “Alone handle one side”and is used to express “Capable of taking charge independently”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theSuccess & Perseverance category..
When is 独当一面 used?
Situation: After years of training, she can now manage the department independently.
What is the pinyin for 独当一面?
The pinyin pronunciation for 独当一面 is “dú dāng yī miàn”.