📖 Meaning
Sturdy armor and sharp weapons. It describes a well-equipped and elite military force. The phrase conveys the idea of a formidable army prepared for battle.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the Mozi (墨子), a text from the Warring States period attributed to the philosopher Mozi. In the chapter 'Against Offensive Warfare' (非攻下), Mozi criticizes states that use strong armor and sharp weapons to attack innocent nations. He argues that such military power used for unjust aggression is morally wrong. The phrase has since come to represent a powerful, well-armed fighting force.
💡 Example Usage
这支军队坚甲利兵，所向披靡，无人能挡。
This army, with its sturdy armor and sharp weapons, was invincible and unstoppable.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 坚甲利兵
- Pinyin: jiān jiǎ lì bīng
- Literal Translation: sturdy, armor, sharp, weapons
- Category: Power
- Characters: 4