与虎谋皮(與虎謀皮)
与虎谋皮 (yǔ hǔ móu pí) literally means “with tiger plot skin”and expresses “asking someone to sacrifice their core interests”.This idiom is used when describing situations involving strategy & action.
Also searched as: yu hu mou pi, yu hu mou pi,与虎谋皮 meaning, 与虎谋皮 in english
Pronunciation: yǔ hǔ móu pí Literal meaning: With tiger plot skin
Origin & Usage
Originating from the 'Strategies of the Warring States' around 300 BCE, the phrase describes the futility of discussing with a tiger (与虎) about acquiring its skin (谋皮). The metaphor emerged from diplomatic discourse about impossible negotiations where self-preservation inevitably overrides agreements. Tang Dynasty strategists frequently invoked it in political discussions, with tigers representing both power and fundamental self-interest. Modern usage spans business negotiations to international relations, describing situations where one party is asked to surrender something essential to their survival.
When to Use
Situation: Negotiating with the monopoly about fair pricing was like asking a tiger for its own hide
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does 与虎谋皮 mean in English?
与虎谋皮 (yǔ hǔ móu pí) literally translates to “With tiger plot skin”and is used to express “Asking someone to sacrifice their core interests”. This Chinese idiom belongs to theStrategy & Action category..
When is 与虎谋皮 used?
Situation: Negotiating with the monopoly about fair pricing was like asking a tiger for its own hide
What is the pinyin for 与虎谋皮?
The pinyin pronunciation for 与虎谋皮 is “yǔ hǔ móu pí”.