📖 Meaning
This idiom describes acting tyrannically and recklessly without any fear of consequences. It refers to someone who relies on power or brute force to commit misdeeds with complete disregard for rules, laws, or other people. The phrase conveys the sense of unchecked arrogance enabled by authority or strength.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from Chapter 13 of the Ming Dynasty novel 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' (三国演义) by Luo Guanzhong. It depicts a chaotic period when tyrannical officials and warlords acted without restraint, committing outrages openly while the imperial court had no one bold enough to speak against them. The scene captures the lawlessness and helplessness of the late Han court when powerful factions dominated political life.
💡 Example Usage
那帮恶霸仗着背后有人撑腰，在乡里横行无忌，百姓苦不堪言。
Relying on powerful backers, those local tyrants ran roughshod over the countryside without any restraint, leaving the common people in misery.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 横行无忌
- Pinyin: héng xíng wú jì
- Literal Translation: walk sideways, act tyrannically, without, scruple
- Category: Power
- Characters: 4