📖 Meaning
A metaphor for attaching oneself to people of power and influence, like roots and stems clinging to a larger plant. It describes those who seek advancement by becoming dependents or hangers-on of influential figures. The term carries a derogatory tone, implying opportunistic dependence rather than merit.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from a Ming dynasty letter by Tang Shunzhi (唐顺之), titled '与周约庵中丞论项守' (To Censor-in-Chief Zhou Yue'an, Discussing Magistrate Xiang). In the letter, Tang criticizes the political climate under Grand Secretary Luo, noting that while officials flocked to him from all directions, the people of Yongjia were especially notorious for clinging to his power—using the connection to seize lucrative posts and drum up influence. The imagery of roots and stems adhering to a host plant vividly captures this parasitic attachment to authority.
💡 Example Usage
他根株附丽于权贵，借势上位，众人皆鄙视其为人。
He clung to the powerful to rise in rank, and everyone despised his character.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 根株附丽
- Pinyin: gēn zhū fù lì
- Literal Translation: root, stem, attach, adhere
- Category: Power
- Characters: 4