扶危济困

fú wēi jì kùn
Literal: "support the imperiled, relieve the distressed"

📖 Meaning

To help those in danger and aid those in distress. This idiom describes the noble act of coming to the assistance of people facing hardship or crisis, reflecting a spirit of compassion and justice.

📜 Origin Story

The phrase originates from 'Water Margin' (水浒全传) by Shi Nai'an of the Ming Dynasty. In Chapter 55, a character praises a general for his righteous conduct and benevolence, noting his reputation for helping the imperiled and relieving the distressed. The idiom has since become a well-known expression for charitable and heroic deeds in Chinese culture.

💡 Example Usage

这位企业家常年捐资助学,扶危济困,深受乡邻敬重。

This entrepreneur has long donated to support education and helped those in need, earning deep respect from his neighbors.

🏷️ Category

➕ Similar Idioms

➖ Opposite Idioms

🔤 Quick Facts

  • Chinese: 扶危济困
  • Pinyin: fú wēi jì kùn
  • Literal Translation: support the imperiled, relieve the distressed
  • Category: Morality
  • Characters: 4