📖 Meaning
To seize the opportune moment and make a decisive judgment without hesitation. It is equivalent to the idiom 当机立断, emphasizing that one should act promptly when the right moment arises rather than delaying or wavering.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from a Tang dynasty epitaph titled 'Stele for the Late Chancellor Du Hongjian,' written by the official Yuan Zai. In the inscription, Yuan Zai praises Du Hongjian's administrative acumen, describing how he could untangle complex affairs and make swift, firm decisions whenever the situation demanded it. The expression '逢机立断' thus became a commendation of decisive leadership at critical junctures.
💡 Example Usage
面对敌军突袭，将军逢机立断，下令全军撤退至城中防守。
Facing the enemy's surprise attack, the general made a prompt decision and ordered the entire army to fall back and defend the city.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 逢机立断
- Pinyin: féng jī lì duàn
- Literal Translation: meet, opportunity, immediately, decide
- Category: Determination
- Characters: 4