📖 Meaning
To speak cautiously and act swiftly. It describes a person who is careful with words but quick and decisive in deeds. The idiom praises those who value action over empty talk.
📜 Origin Story
This phrase originates from the Analects of Confucius, specifically the chapter 'Li Ren' (里仁). Confucius taught that a gentleman should be cautious in speech and diligent in action, emphasizing that words should be weighed carefully while deeds should be carried out promptly. The saying became a core principle of Confucian ethics, contrasting earnest conduct with boastful talk.
💡 Example Usage
他为人讷言敏行，从不空谈，总是默默把事情做好。
He speaks little and acts decisively, never engaging in empty talk but quietly getting things done well.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 讷言敏行
- Pinyin: nè yán mǐn xíng
- Literal Translation: 讷, cautious, 言, speech, 敏, agile, 行, action
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4