📖 Meaning
To copy or imitate something using a similar model as reference, even if the result is not exact. It describes learning or reproducing by following an existing pattern or example closely, much like drawing a tiger while looking at a cat.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom originates from Chapter 11 of the Qing dynasty novel 'Qilu Deng' (《歧路灯》) by Li Luyuan. It describes a clever young master who was so sharp that he could grasp things by merely observing and imitating — 'he draws a tiger while looking at a cat, and masters it at first glance.' The phrase captures the idea of learning through mimicry, a common pedagogical approach in traditional Chinese arts and crafts.
💡 Example Usage
他刚学国画，只能照猫画虎地临摹老师的作品。
He just started learning Chinese painting, so he can only copy the teacher's works by imitation.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 照猫画虎
- Pinyin: zhào māo huà hǔ
- Literal Translation: according to, cat, draw, tiger
- Category: Method
- Characters: 4