📖 Meaning
To retire from public life or step down voluntarily after accomplishing great deeds. It embodies the Daoist ideal of knowing when to withdraw rather than clinging to power or fame. The phrase suggests that true wisdom lies in recognizing the right moment to leave the stage after one's work is done.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from Chapter 9 of the 'Dao De Jing' (道德经), the foundational text of Daoism attributed to Laozi (老子) during the Spring and Autumn period of ancient China. The original passage states: 'When work is done and fame achieved, the self should withdraw — this is the Way of Heaven' (功成、名遂、身退，天之道). Laozi used this principle to illustrate the natural order: just as water flows downhill and then rejoins the sea, a person of virtue should not hoard success or overstay their moment of glory. The concept became a core tenet of Daoist philosophy, influencing countless scholars, generals, and statesmen throughout Chinese history who chose to retire at the height of their careers rather than risk downfall from excessive ambition.
💡 Example Usage
他在公司上市后选择功成身退，把舞台留给了年轻人。
After the company went public, he chose to retire gracefully, leaving the stage to the younger generation.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 功成身退
- Pinyin: gōng chéng shēn tuì
- Literal Translation: achievement, complete, self, retreat
- Category: Philosophy
- Characters: 4