Back to all idioms

后顾之忧(後顧之憂)

hòu gù zhī yōuStrategy & Action

后顾之忧 (hòu gù zhī yōu) literally meansbackward glance's worryand expressesconcerns about hidden vulnerabilities”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy & action.

Also searched as: hou gu zhi you, hou gu zhi you,后顾之忧 meaning, 后顾之忧 in english

Pronunciation: hòu gù zhī yōu Literal meaning: Backward glance's worry

Origin & Usage

Ancient military strategists coined this phrase about worries (忧) from looking back (后顾), emphasizing how unaddressed vulnerabilities can paralyze forward progress. Han Dynasty political writers expanded it beyond warfare to describe any situation where background concerns prevent bold action. The psychological insight remains relevant - true confidence requires securing one's rear position.

When to Use

Situation: The general secured supply lines to prevent vulnerability during the advance


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

Related Chinese Idioms

Similar idioms about strategy & action

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 后顾之忧 mean in English?

后顾之忧 (hòu gù zhī yōu) literally translates toBackward glance's worryand is used to expressConcerns about hidden vulnerabilities”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theStrategy & Action category..

When is 后顾之忧 used?

Situation: The general secured supply lines to prevent vulnerability during the advance

What is the pinyin for 后顾之忧?

The pinyin pronunciation for 后顾之忧 ishòu gù zhī yōu”.

Curated Lists Featuring 后顾之忧