📖 Meaning
To act willfully and without restraint, ignoring rules or conventions. It describes someone who behaves freely and unchecked in their conduct. It is synonymous with 放纵不羁.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the Book of Han (汉书), in the biography of itinerant knights (游侠传), specifically about Chen Zun (陈遵). Chen Zun's friend Sòng (竦) was learned and prudent, guarding himself with humility and frugality, while Chen Zun was indulgent and unrestrained in his behavior. Though their conduct differed greatly, the two were close friends. The contrast between the two figures gave rise to the expression.
💡 Example Usage
他自幼放纵不拘，不肯遵守任何规矩。
From a young age he was willful and unrestrained, refusing to follow any rules.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 放纵不拘
- Pinyin: fàng zòng bù jū
- Literal Translation: indulge, loose, not, restrain
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4