📖 Meaning
To feel fear or awe upon seeing something. It describes a person or thing that appears intimidating or forbidding at first sight, inspiring a sense of dread or reverence in those who behold it.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase traces back to the 'Analects of Confucius' (论语), specifically the chapter 'Yao Yue' (尧曰), compiled during the Spring and Autumn period. Confucius described how a gentleman should conduct himself with dignified appearance and bearing, so that people would feel a respectful awe upon seeing him. He noted that this would make the gentleman commanding yet not cruel. Over time, the expression evolved into a common idiom used to describe anyone or anything that inspires fear or intimidation at first glance.
💡 Example Usage
他那严厉的目光和冰冷的面孔，让人望而生畏。
His stern gaze and cold expression made people feel intimidated the moment they saw him.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 望而生畏
- Pinyin: wàng ér shēng wèi
- Literal Translation: gaze, then, give rise to, fear
- Category: Emotion
- Characters: 4