📖 Meaning
Originally a military strategy of firmly establishing camp before attacking with confidence. It now metaphorically means working in a steady, sure-footed, and well-paced manner. The phrase emphasizes caution and reliability over haste or risk-taking.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from modern Chinese military and political discourse, most notably appearing in Mao Zedong's 1948 communiqué 'Bulletin on the Situation.' Mao stated the guiding principle of his forces as 'steady encampment and steady fighting, not seeking quick results.' The idiom reflects a strategic doctrine favoring methodical, secure progress over reckless speed, widely adopted in both military and civilian contexts throughout the People's Republic of China era.
💡 Example Usage
这项工程要稳扎稳打，不能急于求成。
This project must proceed steadily and carefully; we must not rush for quick results.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 稳扎稳打
- Pinyin: wěn zhā wěn dǎ
- Literal Translation: steady, encamp, steady, strike
- Category: Method
- Characters: 4