📖 Meaning
This idiom means to conceal one's talents and achievements, keeping them hidden from public view. It describes a person who deliberately stays out of the spotlight and avoids showing off their abilities. It is synonymous with 韬光晦迹.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom draws from classical Chinese philosophical traditions that valued humility and concealment of talent. The character 韬 originally referred to a sheath or cover for a bow or sword, metaphorically meaning to put away or conceal. The concept of hiding one's brilliance and traces was admired by Daoist-influenced scholars who believed that true wisdom lay in not displaying oneself. Over time, it became a literary expression used to praise those who chose to remain obscure despite possessing great ability.
💡 Example Usage
他功成之后便韬光隐迹，不再过问江湖之事。
After achieving success, he concealed his talents and withdrew from worldly affairs, no longer concerning himself with the matters of the martial world.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 韬光隐迹
- Pinyin: tāo guāng yǐn jì
- Literal Translation: conceal light, hide traces
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4