📖 Meaning
These refer to traditional carpentry and measuring tools—the compass for drawing circles, the square for right angles, and the hook and line for gauging curves and straightness. Metaphorically, they denote the standards, rules, and norms that one should observe and follow in conduct or work.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from 'Guanzi: Xingshi' (《管子·形势》), a text attributed to Guan Zhong, a renowned statesman of the Spring and Autumn period (770–476 BC). The text cites Xi Zhong (奚仲), the legendary inventor of the chariot during the Xia dynasty. When Xi Zhong constructed chariots, every part—whether square, round, curved, or straight—conformed precisely to the compass, square, hook, and line. The phrase thus came to symbolize the necessity of adhering to established standards in all endeavors.
💡 Example Usage
为政者当循规矩钩绳，方能服众。
Those who govern must follow established standards and rules in order to win the people's trust.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 规矩钩绳
- Pinyin: guī jǔ gōu shéng
- Literal Translation: compass, square, hook, line
- Category: Method
- Characters: 4