📖 Meaning
When a fierce tiger roars, strong winds arise. It is a metaphor for a heroic figure emerging in response to the tide of the times and exerting great influence on society. It can also refer to a talented person rising up to accomplish great deeds.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom originates from the 'Biography of Zhang Dinghe' in the 'History of the Northern Dynasties' (北史), compiled during the Tang dynasty. The original passage reads: 'When the tiger roars, wind is born; when the dragon soars, clouds arise; heroes and sages strive forward, each according to the times.' It draws on the ancient folk belief that a tiger's roar could summon wind, symbolizing how great talents emerge in response to historical opportunity. The phrase was later widely used by literati to praise illustrious figures who shaped their era.
💡 Example Usage
乱世之中，豪杰并起，虎啸风生，各据一方。
Amid the chaos, heroes rose together; with the tiger's roar the winds surged, each holding their own domain.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 虎啸风生
- Pinyin: hǔ xiào fēng shēng
- Literal Translation: tiger, roar, wind, arise
- Category: Leadership
- Characters: 4