📖 Meaning
To step back and reflect on one's words and deeds, then correct any faults found. It describes the practice of self-examination after the fact to identify and remedy one's mistakes. The phrase emphasizes taking personal responsibility for self-improvement.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the Zuo Zhuan (左传·昭公十二年), a foundational historical text of the Spring and Autumn period. In the passage, an official named Lin Fu is praised for his devotion to his lord: when advancing in court he strives to give loyal counsel, and when retiring he reflects on and corrects his own errors. Such conduct, it is said, makes him a true guardian of the state. The phrase thus became a model for conscientious self-examination in public service.
💡 Example Usage
他每次出错后都退思补过，认真反省并加以改正。
After every mistake, he reflects on his errors and corrects them.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 退思补过
- Pinyin: tuì sī bǔ guò
- Literal Translation: retreat, reflect, mend, fault
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4