📖 Meaning
To gain the upper hand by acting first and seizing the initiative. Originally referring to the strategic advantage of striking before the opponent, it now broadly means taking preemptive action to subdue or control others.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the Book of Han (汉书), in the biography of Xiang Yu (项籍传). During the late Qin Dynasty, when rebellions were erupting across the land, Yin Tong, the governor of Kuaiji, discussed strategy with Xiang Yu and his uncle Xiang Liang. They agreed that whoever strikes first gains control of the situation, while those who act later will be controlled by others. This principle of seizing the initiative became a timeless military and political maxim.
💡 Example Usage
比赛刚开始，他便先发制人，连续得分打乱了对手的节奏。
Right at the start of the match, he seized the initiative and scored consecutively, disrupting his opponent's rhythm.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 先发制人
- Pinyin: xiān fā zhì rén
- Literal Translation: first, act, control, person
- Category: Action
- Characters: 4