另辟蹊径(另闢蹊徑)
另辟蹊径 (lìng pì xī jìng) literally means “separately open a side path”and expresses “find an alternative approach; think outside the box”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy & action.
Also searched as: ling pi xi jing, ling pi xi jing,另辟蹊径 meaning, 另辟蹊径 in english
Pronunciation: lìng pì xī jìng Literal meaning: Separately open a side path
Origin & Usage
This idiom describes separately (另) opening (辟) a side path (蹊径) - finding an alternative route. It praises creative problem-solving that avoids direct confrontation with obstacles by discovering new approaches. The phrase appeared in texts praising innovative thinkers who found unexpected solutions. Modern usage celebrates creative thinking, unconventional strategies, and innovative approaches that succeed by departing from established methods.
When to Use
Situation: Instead of competing directly, she found an innovative alternative approach.
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about strategy & action
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Be experienced; find something easy due to familiarity
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wàn wú yī shī
Absolutely sure; foolproof
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密不透风
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Airtight; impenetrable
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天罗地网
tiān luó dì wǎng
Inescapable net; dragnet
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势在必行
shì zài bì xíng
Be imperative; must be done
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稳扎稳打
wěn zhā wěn dǎ
Proceed steadily; consolidate before advancing
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欲擒故纵
yù qín gù zòng
Give slack before tightening; let go to catch
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wéi wèi jiù zhào
Relieve pressure by attacking the source
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 另辟蹊径 mean in English?
另辟蹊径 (lìng pì xī jìng) literally translates to “Separately open a side path”and is used to express “Find an alternative approach; think outside the box”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theStrategy & Action category..
When is 另辟蹊径 used?
Situation: Instead of competing directly, she found an innovative alternative approach.
What is the pinyin for 另辟蹊径?
The pinyin pronunciation for 另辟蹊径 is “lìng pì xī jìng”.