📖 Meaning
This idiom means that a person directly involved in a situation is often unable to see it clearly, while an outside observer can see things more objectively. It describes how being too close to a matter can cloud one's judgment. It is commonly paired with the phrase 旁观者清 (the bystander sees clearly).
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from a ci poem by the Song dynasty poet Xin Qiji (辛弃疾), titled 'Lian Xiu Qin: No Title' (《恋绣衾·无题》). In the poem, Xin Qiji writes that he laughs at others, only to realize that he himself, as someone caught up in the situation, is also confused. The idiom draws on the metaphor of board game players who, being absorbed in the game, cannot see the overall situation as clearly as those watching from the sidelines.
💡 Example Usage
遇到困难时不妨听听旁人的意见，毕竟当局者迷，旁观者清。
When facing difficulties, it helps to listen to others' opinions—after all, those involved are often confused while bystanders see clearly.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 当局者迷
- Pinyin: dāng jú zhě mí
- Literal Translation: the, person involved, is, confused
- Category: Wisdom
- Characters: 4