📖 Meaning
Describes a person of low social standing with little wealth or power. It conveys a sense of insignificance and meager means, often used as a humble, self-deprecating way of saying one is in no position to offer much help or support.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom has no recorded origin in classical texts and is not attributed to any specific dynasty, historical figure, or literary work. It is a self-formed four-character expression assembled from common classical Chinese vocabulary: 身 (body/person), 微 (humble, lowly), 力 (strength), and 薄 (thin, weak). Its structure mirrors other classical phrases that pair 微 and 薄 to express insignificance and scant resources. It functions as a modest way to acknowledge one's low position and limited means.
💡 Example Usage
我身微力薄，实在无力资助这次筹款活动。
Being of humble standing and limited means, I truly cannot afford to fund this fundraising campaign.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 身微力薄
- Pinyin: shēn wēi lì báo
- Literal Translation: person, humble, strength, weak
- Category: Status
- Characters: 4