📖 Meaning
Refers to the governance of a nation as a grand and noble enterprise. In its original context, it especially emphasizes the vital role of writing and literature in statecraft and civilization.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from 'Discourse on Literature' (典论·论文) by Cao Pi (曹丕), Emperor Wen of the Wei dynasty during the Three Kingdoms period. Cao Pi wrote that 'literary composition is the great enterprise of governing the state, a splendid undertaking that never decays.' He elevated writing to the highest level of national importance, ranking it alongside political and military achievements.
💡 Example Usage
他把治学视为经国大业，一生笔耕不辍。
He regarded scholarship as a great enterprise of national governance and never ceased writing throughout his life.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 经国大业
- Pinyin: jīng guó dà yè
- Literal Translation: govern, country, great, undertaking
- Category: Leadership
- Characters: 4