📖 Meaning
This idiom refers to the legendary Emperor Yu the Great's diligence in controlling floods and his deep appreciation of time. It uses 'cun yin' (an inch of a sundial's shadow, i.e., a brief moment) to emphasize the importance of valuing every second. It serves as praise for those who are tireless and devoted to their work.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the legend of Yu the Great (大禹), a sage king of ancient China who devotedly tamed the great floods. During his thirteen years of flood control, Yu was said to have passed his own home three times without entering, so consumed was he by his mission. The phrase captures how Yu treasured even the smallest unit of time—represented by 'cun yin,' an inch of a sundial's shadow—to accomplish his monumental task. The idiom celebrates Yu's virtue of diligence and has been used throughout Chinese history to encourage treasuring time.
💡 Example Usage
他常以禹惜寸阴自勉，珍惜每一分每一秒。
He often encouraged himself with the example of Yu cherishing every inch of time, treasuring every minute and second.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 禹惜寸阴
- Pinyin: yǔ xī cùn yīn
- Literal Translation: Yu, cherish, inch, shade
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4