📖 Meaning
To advance and retreat with proper measure and restraint. It describes someone whose every action is governed by appropriate limits and good judgment, neither rushing ahead recklessly nor withdrawing irresolutely.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase reflects classical Confucian ideals of moderation and propriety (中庸), which held that a gentleman should conduct himself with measured restraint in all circumstances. While no single historical anecdote is tied to this exact expression, its components draw from ancient political and philosophical discourse on how officials and rulers should carry themselves—knowing when to press forward and when to hold back. Similar formulations appear across early texts emphasizing that proper conduct in both advancement and withdrawal distinguishes the wise from the impulsive. Over time it became a standard compliment for statesmen, generals, and scholars whose behavior exemplified disciplined self-command.
💡 Example Usage
他为人沉稳，进退有度，深得众人敬重。
Steady and measured in all his actions, he earned the deep respect of everyone around him.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 进退有度
- Pinyin: jìn tuì yǒu dù
- Literal Translation: advance, retreat, have, measure
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4