📖 Meaning
This idiom metaphorically describes someone who harbors sinister and treacherous intentions deep within. Like having sharp scales and armor concealed in one's chest, it suggests a person is dangerously calculating and should not be trusted or approached closely.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the 'Records of the Three Kingdoms' (三国志), in the biography of Chen Zhen of Shu. Before departing on a diplomatic mission to Wu, Chen Zhen (style name Xiaoqi) warned the Shu chancellor Zhuge Liang about his fellow official Li Yan (style name Zhengfang), saying he 'had scales and armor in his belly.' Zhuge Liang later relayed this in a letter to Chief Clerk Jiang Wan and Palace Attendant Dong Yun, noting that Li Yan's own townsfolk considered him too dangerous to approach. The phrase thus became a metaphor for harboring deeply malicious intent.
💡 Example Usage
此人胸有鳞甲，不可深交。
This person harbors sinister intentions and should not be befriended too closely.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 胸有鳞甲
- Pinyin: xiōng yǒu lín jiǎ
- Literal Translation: chest, has, scales, armor
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4