📖 Meaning
This idiom means to forfeit national sovereignty and bring disgrace upon one's country. It typically describes treaties, policies, or actions that compromise a nation's independence and dignity. It is most often used to criticize capitulation to foreign powers.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom arose from the historical context of late Qing Dynasty China in the 19th century. After successive defeats in the Opium Wars, the Qing government was forced to sign a series of unequal treaties with Western powers such as Britain and France, ceding territory, paying heavy indemnities, and granting extraterritorial concessions. These concessions eroded China's sovereignty and became a lasting symbol of national humiliation. The phrase crystallized the collective shame felt by the Chinese people and became a standard indictment of any leadership that compromises the nation's independence.
💡 Example Usage
晚清政府与列强签订了一系列丧权辱国的不平等条约。
The late Qing government signed a series of unequal treaties that humiliated the nation and forfeited its sovereignty.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 丧权辱国
- Pinyin: sàng quán rǔ guó
- Literal Translation: lose, sovereignty, humiliate, country
- Category: Power
- Characters: 4