📖 Meaning
To achieve success or merit but not claim the credit for oneself. The phrase originates from Daoist philosophy, expressing the ideal of acting without attachment to personal accomplishment. It describes a noble and humble character where one does not boast about one's achievements.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from Chapter 2 of the Dao De Jing (道德经), written by Laozi (老子), a philosopher of the Spring and Autumn period. The full passage reads '生而不有，为而不恃，功成而不居' — giving life without possessing, acting without relying on it, achieving success without claiming it. Laozi used this to express the Daoist ideal of wuwei (non-action) and non-attachment to results. The concept reflects the sage's attitude of letting things follow their natural course without seeking personal glory.
💡 Example Usage
这位科学家功成不居，把全部荣誉都归于团队的努力。
This scientist did not claim credit for his success, attributing all the honors to the team's efforts.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 功成不居
- Pinyin: gōng chéng bù jū
- Literal Translation: merit, accomplished, not, claim
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4