📖 Meaning
This idiom describes someone whose power and influence dominate both inside and outside the imperial court. It conveys that a person's authority is so immense that it surpasses all others in the government and beyond.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase appears in classical historical writings describing powerful ministers or officials whose authority rivaled or exceeded that of the sovereign. Such figures, often regents or grand councilors, controlled appointments, military affairs, and court politics simultaneously. The expression captures the historical archetype of the overmighty minister found throughout Chinese dynastic history, from the Han eunuchs to Tang and Song chancellors.
💡 Example Usage
他年轻时便权倾中外，满朝文武无不敬畏。
Even in his youth, his power dominated both the court and the country, commanding the awe and respect of every official.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 权倾中外
- Pinyin: quán qīng zhōng wai
- Literal Translation: power, overwhelms, within, without
- Category: Power
- Characters: 4