📖 Meaning
When two people share the same heart and purpose, their combined strength can cut through even the hardest metal. It describes the immense power of unity and concerted effort. The idiom emphasizes that solidarity among people produces formidable strength.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the "Xici" (系辞上) commentary of the "I Ching" (Book of Changes), a foundational text of ancient Chinese philosophy dating to the Zhou dynasty. The original line reads, "When two people are of one heart, their sharpness can cut through metal." It was meant to illustrate the power of harmony and mutual understanding between individuals. Over the centuries, it became a common expression for praising teamwork and collective resolve.
💡 Example Usage
只要我们同心断金，就没有克服不了的困难。
As long as we unite with one heart, there is no difficulty we cannot overcome.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 同心断金
- Pinyin: tóng xīn duàn jīn
- Literal Translation: same, heart, cut, gold/metal
- Category: Leadership
- Characters: 4