📖 Meaning
Describes a person who, despite reaching old age, remains as vigorous and capable as in their younger years. It conveys that one's skills and strength have not declined with age, like a treasured blade that has kept its edge.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom has no single definitive classical source; it draws on the imagery of a treasured sword that retains its sharpness even after long use. The metaphor commonly appears in tales of veteran warriors and generals who, in their later years, still prove formidable on the battlefield. Over time it became a compliment for anyone whose abilities remain undiminished by age.
💡 Example Usage
爷爷虽然年纪很大了，但宝刀未老，依然每天出去晨练。
Although Grandpa is quite old, his vigor remains undiminished—he still goes out for his morning exercises every day.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 宝刀未老
- Pinyin: bǎo dāo wèi lǎo
- Literal Translation: precious, sword, not, yet, old
- Category: Skill
- Characters: 4