📖 Meaning
To betray public duty in pursuit of private gain; to abuse one's position for personal profit. It describes corrupt behavior where an official or person in power puts self-interest above the common good, often in violation of law or ethics.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the Song Dynasty text 'On Protecting the Dharma' (护法论) by Zhang Shangying, where he lamented that those who betray public duty for private gain endlessly encroach upon others' interests. The term was later cited in Qing Dynasty writings, such as Zhao Lian's 'Notes from the Howling Pavilion' (啸亭杂录), in political memoranda accusing officials of corruption. It has served as a standard condemnation of official misconduct throughout Chinese history.
💡 Example Usage
他因背公营私被革职查办。
He was dismissed and investigated for betraying public duty for private gain.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 背公营私
- Pinyin: bèi gōng yíng sī
- Literal Translation: turn against the public, pursue the private
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4