📖 Meaning
To endure extreme humiliation and disfigurement in pursuit of a sworn revenge. It describes someone willing to destroy their own body and identity to avenge a benefactor, embodying fierce loyalty and unyielding resolve.
📜 Origin Story
During the Warring States period, the warrior Yu Rang was deeply appreciated by Zhi Bo of the Jin state. After Zhi Bo was killed by the allied forces of Han, Zhao, and Wei, Yu Rang swore to avenge his lord. To avoid recognition, he coated his body in lacquer to induce repulsive sores and swallowed charcoal to destroy his voice, transforming his appearance entirely. His repeated attempts to assassinate Zhao Xiangzi failed, and he died without achieving his goal. The story is recorded in 'Zhan Guo Ce: Zhao Ce I' and 'Records of the Grand Historian: Biographies of the Assassins'.
💡 Example Usage
他为报知遇之恩，吞炭漆身，矢志复仇，其忠烈之心令人感佩。
To repay the kindness of being recognized, he swallowed charcoal and lacquered his body, vowing revenge—his fierce loyalty commands deep admiration.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 吞炭漆身
- Pinyin: tūn tàn qī shēn
- Literal Translation: swallow charcoal, lacquer body
- Category: Perseverance
- Characters: 4