Back to all idioms

沽名钓誉(沽名釣譽)

gū míng diào yùRelationships & Character

沽名钓誉 (gū míng diào yù) literally meansfish for fame and angle for reputationand expressesseek fame through calculated actions”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving relationships & character.

Also searched as: gu ming diao yu, gu ming diao yu,沽名钓誉 meaning, 沽名钓誉 in english

Pronunciation: gū míng diào yù Literal meaning: Fish for fame and angle for reputation

Origin & Usage

This idiom describes seeking to buy (沽) fame (名) and fishing (钓) for reputation (誉). It criticizes those who pursue recognition through calculated actions rather than genuine merit. The imagery of fishing suggests patience and deliberate effort in acquiring reputation. Modern usage criticizes those whose good deeds are motivated primarily by desire for recognition rather than altruism.

When to Use

Situation: His charity work seemed more about publicity than genuine help.


Discover a new Chinese idiom every day with our iOS app.

Related Chinese Idioms

Similar idioms about relationships & character

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 沽名钓誉 mean in English?

沽名钓誉 (gū míng diào yù) literally translates toFish for fame and angle for reputationand is used to expressSeek fame through calculated actions”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theRelationships & Character category..

When is 沽名钓誉 used?

Situation: His charity work seemed more about publicity than genuine help.

What is the pinyin for 沽名钓誉?

The pinyin pronunciation for 沽名钓誉 isgū míng diào yù”.