📖 Meaning
This idiom means to conceal one's talents and abilities, keeping them from being displayed outwardly. It is synonymous with '韬光养晦' (tāo guāng yǎng huì). The phrase advocates hiding one's brilliance and biding one's time rather than seeking attention or showing off.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase derives from classical Chinese strategic philosophy, closely related to the concept of 韬光养晦 found in early texts. The character 韬 means to sheathe or conceal, 光 refers to light or brilliance (metaphorically one's talents), 用 means to employ or use, and 晦 means darkness or obscurity. Together they express the wisdom of keeping one's capabilities hidden until the right moment. This principle has been referenced in various historical and literary works throughout Chinese history as a strategy for survival and long-term success.
💡 Example Usage
他在公司里韬光用晦，从不炫耀自己的才华。
He kept a low profile at the company, never showing off his talents.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 韬光用晦
- Pinyin: tāo guāng yòng huì
- Literal Translation: conceal, light, use, obscurity
- Category: Wisdom
- Characters: 4