📖 Meaning
The country is at peace and the people live in contentment and security. It describes a prosperous and stable society where the nation is tranquil and citizens enjoy a good life. Often used to describe ideal governance.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the Song dynasty work 'Meng Liang Lu' (梦梁录) by Wu Zimu, specifically in the chapter on mountain and river deities. The text describes how each year when the sea tides overflowed and threatened the city walls, the court would hold sacrificial ceremonies in spring and autumn, commissioning scholars to write prayers beseeching the gods for national peace and the people's wellbeing. The phrase thus became a standard expression in imperial prayers for stability and prosperity.
💡 Example Usage
改革开放以来，国家繁荣昌盛，国泰民安，人民的生活水平不断提高。
Since the reform and opening-up, the country has prospered with peace and stability, and the people's living standards have continuously improved.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 国泰民安
- Pinyin: guó tài mín ān
- Literal Translation: nation, peaceful, people, secure
- Category: Condition
- Characters: 4