📖 Meaning
Literally, to draw a bow without releasing the arrow. Figuratively, it describes someone skilled at guiding and inspiring others by setting an example rather than giving direct answers. It also means making full preparations while waiting for the right moment to act.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from 'Mencius: Jin Xin I' (《孟子·尽心上》), a text from the Warring States period (c. 4th century BCE). Mencius wrote: 'A gentleman draws the bow without releasing the arrow, looking eager to spring forward; he stands at the middle path, and the capable follow him.' The metaphor describes how a superior teacher guides by example—setting things in motion but letting students reach the conclusion themselves. Mao Zedong later cited this phrase in his 'Report on an Investigation of the Peasant Movement in Hunan' to describe the Communist Party's propaganda strategy of inspiring rather than dictating.
💡 Example Usage
教练在战术安排上引而不发，等待最佳时机再出击。
The coach held back tactically, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 引而不发
- Pinyin: yǐn ér bù fā
- Literal Translation: draw the bow, yet, not, release the arrow
- Category: Method
- Characters: 4