取长补短(取長補短)
取长补短 (qǔ cháng bǔ duǎn) literally means “take strengths fix weaknesses”and expresses “combine strengths to overcome weaknesses”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving wisdom & learning.
Also searched as: qu chang bu duan, qu chang bu duan,取长补短 meaning, 取长补短 in english
Pronunciation: qǔ cháng bǔ duǎn Literal meaning: Take strengths fix weaknesses
Origin & Usage
This balanced approach advocates taking (取) strengths (长) to supplement (补) weaknesses (短), first appearing in Han Dynasty governance texts. The concept gained practical application during the Tang Dynasty's civil service reforms, where officials were paired to complement each other's abilities. Historical records show how Emperor Taizong deliberately combined ministers with different talents to strengthen his administration. The principle influenced Chinese military strategy, where generals were taught to leverage their armies' strengths against enemy weaknesses. Modern applications span from business partnerships to education, emphasizing how complementary collaboration often achieves what individual effort cannot. Unlike simple copying, it suggests thoughtful integration of diverse strengths to create balanced systems.
When to Use
Situation: The international team combined German engineering with Italian design
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Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about wisdom & learning
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dé xīn yìng shǒu
Work with great ease; have complete mastery
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jià qīng jiù shú
Be very familiar with; handle with expertise
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Be experienced; find something easy due to familiarity
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Handle with ease; have skill to spare
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Have a well-thought-out plan; be confident
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shì kě ér zhǐ
Stop at the right point; practice moderation
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见好就收
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Quit while ahead; take profits
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Retire at the peak; know when to quit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 取长补短 mean in English?
取长补短 (qǔ cháng bǔ duǎn) literally translates to “Take strengths fix weaknesses”and is used to express “Combine strengths to overcome weaknesses”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theWisdom & Learning category..
When is 取长补短 used?
Situation: The international team combined German engineering with Italian design
What is the pinyin for 取长补短?
The pinyin pronunciation for 取长补短 is “qǔ cháng bǔ duǎn”.