📖 Meaning
This idiom describes someone whose spirit is vigorous and courage is great, making them fearless and intrepid. It characterizes a person who faces challenges or dangers without hesitation or trepidation, projecting both outward confidence and inner resolve.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom does not trace to a single classical text or specific historical anecdote. It is a compound expression formed by joining '气壮' (spirit is strong) and '胆粗' (courage is bold), both established descriptors of bravery in vernacular Chinese. The pairing simultaneously emphasizes outward demeanor—projecting vigor and confidence—and an inner state of fearlessness. Such compounds frequently appear in vernacular fiction, storytelling traditions, and colloquial descriptions of heroic or audacious behavior throughout late imperial Chinese literature.
💡 Example Usage
面对强敌，他气壮胆粗，毫不退缩。
Facing a formidable enemy, he stood fearless and undaunted, refusing to back down.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 气壮胆粗
- Pinyin: qì zhuàng dǎn cū
- Literal Translation: spirit strong, gall bold
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4