📖 Meaning
Zhangtai was a street in Han dynasty Chang'an that later became a euphemism for brothels. The phrase originally meant riding a horse past Zhangtai Street, but came to refer to frequenting brothels or pleasure quarters. It describes someone who indulges in visits to red-light districts.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the Book of Han, Biography of Zhang Chang. Zhang Chang was a Han dynasty official known for his lack of formal dignity. After court sessions ended, he would ride past Zhangtai Street on horseback, having his clerk drive the carriage while he casually tapped his horse with a fan. Zhangtai Street in Chang'an was later associated with entertainment and pleasure quarters, so the expression came to mean visiting brothels.
💡 Example Usage
他年轻时走马章台，如今已收敛许多。
In his youth he frequented the pleasure quarters, but has since reformed considerably.
🏷️ Category
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🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 走马章台
- Pinyin: zǒu mǎ zhāng tái
- Literal Translation: ride, horse, Zhangtai Street
- Category: Lifestyle
- Characters: 4