📖 Meaning
Wearing a loose robe and a wide sash. It refers to the traditional attire of ancient Chinese scholars and Confucian scholars. The phrase evokes the dignified, cultured appearance of a learned gentleman.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the 'Book of Han' (汉书), in the biography of Juan Buyi (隽不疑), a Western Han dynasty official known for his Confucian learning and integrity. The text describes him arriving in formal attire — a broad robe and wide belt — to pay respects at a gate, underscoring his scholarly dignity. Juan Buyi was respected for applying Confucian principles in governance. The phrase became a shorthand for the characteristic dress of classical Chinese literati.
💡 Example Usage
古代儒生褒衣博带，举止从容，尽显书卷之气。
Ancient scholars, in their broad robes and wide belts, carried themselves with unhurried grace, exuding an air of learning.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 褒衣博带
- Pinyin: bāo yī bó dài
- Literal Translation: broad, clothes, wide, belt
- Category: Lifestyle
- Characters: 4