📖 Meaning
Having the same ideals, principles, and ambitions as another person. It describes a deep mutual understanding and shared sense of purpose between individuals. The phrase emphasizes that true partnership arises when people walk the same path and hold the same aspirations.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the memorial 'Chen Shen Ju Biao' (Memorial Recommending Shen Ju) by Cao Zhi of the state of Wei during the Three Kingdoms period. In the text, Cao Zhi reflects on how Yi Yin, though once a lowly attendant, and Lü Shang, though once a humble butcher, were ultimately elevated by Tang of Shang and King Wen of Zhou respectively. He attributes their remarkable success to the fact that ruler and minister were 'dao he zhi tong' — united in the Way and shared in aspiration, achieving extraordinary things through this profound alignment. The phrase thus celebrates the power of kindred spirits joining forces.
💡 Example Usage
他们二人道合志同，合作多年从未有过分歧。
The two shared the same ideals and aspirations, and their years of collaboration never saw a single disagreement.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 道合志同
- Pinyin: dào hé zhì tóng
- Literal Translation: way, aligned, aspiration, same
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4