神马文学网成语故事典故（双语）
来源：百度文库 编辑：神马文学网 时间：2024/04/27 21:57:38
惊弓之鸟
Birds Startled by the Mere Twang of a Bowstring
战国时期（公元前403―221年中国中原地区各诸侯国连年争战的时代）魏国有个名叫更羸的人。一天，他对国王说：“我只要拉开弓，空射一下，就能把天上的鸟射下来。”国王不相信。更羸便对准天上飞来的一只雁射去，果真那只雁听到拉弦的声音就掉了下来。国王感到很奇怪。更羸说，“那是一只受过伤的雁。它一听到我拉开弓弦的声响，就惊慌得支持不住，自然要掉下来了。”
In the Warring States Period, there was a man in the State of Wei called Geng Lei. One day he said to the king: 'I can shoot down birds by simply plucking my bowstring.' When the king expressed doubt, Geng Lei pointed his bow at a wild goose flying in the sky, twanged the bowstring, and the goose fell to the ground. Geng Lei said, 'This goose has been hurt in the past. Hearing the twang of the bowstring, it assumed that it was doomed. So it simply gave up trying to live.'
“惊弓之鸟”这个成语比喻受过惊恐之后，有一点动静就特别害怕。
This idiom means that if one has been frightened in the past one's will may become paralysed in a similar situation.
毛遂自荐
Mao Sui Recommending Himself
战国时代，秦国军队攻打赵国的都城。赵国的平原君打算亲自到楚国去请救兵，想挑选一个精明能干的人一同前去。有一个名叫毛遂的人，自告奋勇愿意同去。平原君到楚国后，与楚王谈了半天，没有一点结果。毛遂怒气冲冲地拿着宝剑，逼近楚王，终于迫使楚王答应出兵，与赵国联合共同抵抗秦国。
In the Warring States Period, the State of Qin besieged the capital of the State of Zhao. Duke Pingyuan of Zhao planned to ask the ruler of the State of Chu personally for assistance. He wanted to select a capable man to go with him. A man called Mao Sui volunteered. When the negoti-actions between the two states were stalled because the ruler of Chu hesitated to send troops, Mao Sui approached him, brandishing a sword. At that, the ruler of Chu agreed to help Zhao, against Qin.
“毛遂自荐”这个成语用来比喻自己推荐自己，不必别人介绍。
This idiom means to recommend oneself.
世外桃源
A Haven of Peace and Happiness
东晋的文学家陶渊明写了一片著名的文章叫《桃花源记》。叙述一个渔人出外捕鱼的时候，偶然来到了桃花源这个地方。从这里通过一个山洞，发现了一个村子，这里的居民是秦朝时避难人的后代。这是一个与世隔绝、没有剥削和压迫、人人安居乐业的美好社会。渔人告别村民回家以后，再也找不到这个地方了。
Tao Yuanming, a famous writer of the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420), wrote the well-known essay Peach-Blossom Spring. In it he tells a story which goes like this: A fisherman happened to come upon a place called Peach-Blossom Spring. Squeezing through a cave, he found a village, the residents of which were descendants of refugees from the Qin Dynasty. It was a paradise isolated from the outside world, without exploitation or oppression, and everybody living and working in peace and contentment. The fisherman left the villagers and went home. But he could never find the place again.
后来，由这个故事产生了“世外桃源”这个成语，用来比喻与世隔绝的、理想的美好世界。
This idiom is derived from the above story, and is used to mean an isolated, ideal world.
南辕北辙
Going South by Driving the Chariot North
从前有个人要到南方去，他坐的车子却向北方行驶。过路人说：“你去南方，车子怎么向北行驶呢？”他回答说：“我的马很能跑路，我的车夫驾车的技术也很高明，加上我又带了充足的路费。”这个人没有考虑到，方向弄反了，他的条件越好，离他要去的地方就越远。
Once a man wanted to go to the south, but his carriage was heading north. A passer-by asked him: 'If you are going to the south, why is your chariot heading north? ' The man answered, 'My horse is good at running, my driver is highly skilled at driving a carriage, and I have enough money. ' The man didn't consider that the direction might be wrong; the better his conditions were, the further he was away from his destination.
后来人们就把这个故事概括为“南辕北辙”，比喻一个人的行为和他的目的正好相反。
The idiom derived from this story indicates that one's action was the opposite effect to one's intention.
画龙点睛
Putting the Finishing Touch to the Picture of a Dragon
南北朝(公元420--589)时期，有个画家叫张僧繇。有一次，他到一个寺庙去游玩，在墙壁上面画了四条龙，可是都没有画出眼睛。看画的人觉得很奇怪，问他为什么不画出眼睛。他说：“眼睛是龙的关键，画上眼睛，龙就会飞走了。”大家不相信他说的话。张僧繇拿起笔来，刚给两条龙点上眼睛，立刻电闪雷鸣，两条龙飞向天空，墙上只剩下两条没有画眼睛的龙。
In the Southern and Northern Dynasties Period (420-589), there was a painter called Zhang Sengyou. Once he visited a temple and painted on the wall four dragons, but gave none of them eyes. The onlookers felt that this was odd, and asked why he hadn't painted the eyes. He answered, 'Eyes are crucial for dragons. With the eyes painted on, the dragons would fly away.' Nobody believed this, so Zhang Sengyou took up his brush and added eyes to two of the dragons. No sooner had he finished than the two dragons flew into the sky amid a thunderstorm. The two without eyes stayed painted on the wall.
“画龙点睛”这个成语用来比喻讲话或写文章时，在关键地方加一两句重要的话，使内容更加生动有力。
This idiom is used to describe how, when writing or speaking, one or two key sentences will enhance the contents.
画蛇添足
Drawing a snake and Adding Feet
战国时代有个楚国人祭他的祖先。仪式结束后，他拿出一壶酒赏给手下的几个人。大家商量说：“我们都来画蛇，谁先画好谁就喝这壶酒。”其中有一个人先画好了。但他看到同伴还没有画完，就又给蛇添上了脚。这时，另一个人也画好了，夺过酒壶吧酒喝了，并且说：“蛇本来是没有脚的，你怎么能给它添上脚呢？”
In the Warring States Period, a man in the State of Chu was offering a sacrifice to his ancestors. After the ceremony, the man gave a beaker of wine to his servants. The servants thought that there was not enough wine for all them, and decided to each draw a picture of a snake; the one who finished the picture first would get the wine. One of them drew very rapidly. Seeing that the others were still busy drawing, he added feet to the snake. At this moment another man finished, snatched the beaker and drank the wine, saying, 'A snake doesn't have feet. How can you add feet to a snake? '
“画蛇添足”这个成语比喻做了多余而不恰当的事，反而把事情弄糟了。
This idiom refers to ruining a venture by doing unnecessary and surplus things.
班门弄斧
Showing Off One's Proficiency with the Axe Before Lu Ban the Master Carpenter
古代有一个建筑和雕刻技术非常高超的人，名叫鲁班，木匠行里尊称他为祖师。传说他曾用木头制作了一只五彩斑斓的凤凰，能够在空中飞翔三天不掉下来。在鲁班门前摆弄斧子，当然显得有些自不量力了。
Lu Ban was supposed to be a consummate carpenter in ancient times. It is said that he once carved a wooden phoenix that was so lifelike that it actually flew in the sky for three days. Thus it was considered the height of folly to show off one's skill with an axe in front of Lu Ban.
“班门弄斧”这个成语，用来比喻在行家面前显示本领。
This idiom excoriates those who show off their slight accomplishments in front of experts.
怒发冲冠
So Angry That One' s Hair Lifts Up One' s Hat
战国时代，赵国的大臣蔺相如出使到秦国。在他向秦王索回玉璧的时候，秦王蛮不讲理，蔺相如气愤得连头发都竖了起来，向上冲着帽子。
In the Warring States Period, Lin Xiangru, chief min-ister of the State of Zhao, was sent as an envoy to the State of Qin to ask the ruler of Qin to return a fine piece of jade to Zhao. But the ruler of Qin was rude and unreasonable. Lin was angry, and his hair stood up so stiffly on his head that it lifted up his hat.
后来人们用“怒发冲冠”这个成语形容人愤怒到了极点。
This idiom came to be used to mean being extremely angry.
画饼充饥
Allaying Hunger with Pictures of Cakes
三国时代魏国的皇帝曹睿，准备选拔一个有才能的人到朝廷来做官。曹睿对他的大臣说：“选择人才，不能光找有虚名的人。虚名好像是在地上画的一块饼，只能看，不能解决肚子饥饿的问题啊！”
In the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), the king of the Wei, Cao Rui, wanted to select a very capable man to work for him. He said to his ministers: 'When choosing a talented person, always beware of one with a false reputation. A false reputation is just like a picture of a cake; it can' t relieve hunger.'
后来人们就用“画饼充饥”这个成语比喻用空想安慰自己，不能解决实际问题。
Later, this idiom came to be used to mean comforting oneself with unrealistic thoughts, without solving practical problems.
一鸣惊人
Amazing the World with a Single Feat
战国时代，齐威王即位后做了三年国君，只顾享乐，不理政事。有个善于说笑话的人叫淳于髡，一天对齐威王说：“城里有一只大鸟，三年不飞也不叫，你知道这是什么道理？”齐威王说：“这鸟不飞则罢，一飞就冲天；不鸣则罢，一鸣就惊人。”在淳于髡的激发下，齐威王开始治理国家，取得很大成绩，齐国的声威一直保持了几十年。
In the Warring States Period, Duke Wei of Qi neglected state affairs, for the first three years of his reign, giving himself over to dissipation. One of his ministers, Chun Yukun who had a good sense of humour, said to him: 'There is a big bird which has neither taken wing nor sung for three years.' The duke answered, 'Once that bird starts to fly and sing, it will astonish the world.' The duke thereupon devoted himself to his duties and built his state up into a powerful one.
“一鸣惊人”用来表示平时默默无闻，一旦行动起来，却做出惊人的成绩。
This idiom is used to indicate that a person may rise from obscurity and achieve greatness.
守株待兔
Sitting by a Stump, Waiting for a Careless Hare
春秋时代，宋国有个农夫，一天在耕田的时候，忽然跑来一只兔子，恰巧碰在树桩上，脖子折断死了。农夫把兔子拾回家去，美美地吃了一顿兔肉。晚上他想：“我何必辛辛苦苦地种地呢？每天在树下能捡到一只兔子就够我吃的了。”于是，他从此不再耕作，每天坐在树下等待兔子的到来。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, a farmer in the State of Song was one day working in the fields when he saw a rabbit bump into a tree stump accidentally and break its neck. The farmer took the rabbit home, and cooked himself a delicious meal. That night he thought, 'I needn't work so hard. All I have to do is wait for a rabbit each day by the stump.' So from then on he gave up farming, and simply sat by the stump waiting for rabbits to come and run into it.
“守株待兔”这个成语，讥笑那些不想经过努力，存在侥幸心理，希望得到意外收获的人。
This idiom satirizes those who just wait for a stroke of luck, rather than making efforts to obtain what they need.
狐假虎威
Basking in Reflected Glory
老虎在山林里捉到了一只狐狸，要吃掉它。狐狸连忙说：“你不能吃我，我是天帝派来统治百兽的。你要吃了我，就违抗了天帝的命令。你不信，就跟我到山林里去一趟，看百兽见了我是不是都很害怕。”老虎相信了狐狸的话，就跟在狐狸的后面走进山林。百兽见了果然都纷纷逃命。老虎以为百兽真的害怕狐狸而不知道是害怕自己，于是就把狐狸给放了。
A tiger caught a fox in a forest, and was just about to eat it, when the fox said, 'You mustn't eat me. I was sent by Heaven to rule the animals. By eating me, you will violate the command of Heaven. If you don't believe me, just follow me to see whether the animals are afraid of me.' The tiger agreed, and followed the fox as it walked around the forest. The animals all ran away on seeing them. The tiger thought they were afraid of the fox, so he let it go. He didn't realise that it was him that the beasts were really afraid of.
“狐假虎威”这个成语用来比喻倚仗别人的势力去欺压人或吓唬人。
This idiom means relying on another's power to bully or frighten others.
破镜重圆
A Broken Mirror Made Whole Agian
南朝陈国(公元557-589)将要灭亡的时候，驸马徐德言把一面铜镜破开，跟妻子各留下一半。双方约定：如果将来夫妻失散了，就把它当作信物。后来，夫妻二人真的失散了，凭借着各人留下的半面镜子，他们最终又得到团圆。
In the Northern and Southern Dynasties when the State of Chen (A.D. 557-589) was facing its demise, Xu Deyan, husband of the princess, broke a bronze mirror into halves. Each of them kept a half as tokens in case they were separated. Soon afterwards, they did lose touch with each other, but the two halves of the mirror enabled them to be reunited.
“破镜重圆”这个成语比喻夫妻失散或分离后重新团聚。
This idiom is used to refer to the reunion of a couple after they lose touch or break up.
一鼓作气
Rousing the Spirits with the First Drum Roll
春秋时代，齐国派兵攻打鲁国。鲁国的国王鲁庄公带着谋士曹刿指挥作战。齐军第一次击鼓以后，鲁军准备发起进攻。曹刿说：“不行。”齐军三次击鼓以后，曹刿才说：“现在可以进攻了。”结果齐军大败。战斗结束后，鲁庄公问曹刿胜利的原因。曹刿说：“打仗要考勇气。第一次击鼓，士气十分旺盛；第二次击鼓，士气有些衰落；第三次击鼓，士气就消耗尽了。敌人士气耗尽，我们发起进攻，所以取得了胜利。”
During the Spring and Autumn Period, an army from the State of Qi confronted one from the State of Lu. After the first roll of drums from the Qi side to summon Lu to battle, the Lu ruler wanted to attack. But his counsellor Cao Gui said, 'We should wait until the third drum roll, sire.' After the Qi side had beaten the drums three times, the Lu army attacked and defeated the Qi army. After the battle, the king asked Cao Gui the reason for his odd advice. Cao Gui answered, 'Fighting needs spirit. Their spirit was aroused by the first roll or the drums, but was depleted by the second. And it was completely exhausted by the third. We started to attack when their spirit was exhausted. That's why we won.'
后来，“一鼓作气”形容鼓起劲头，一下子把事情干完。
This idiom later meant to get something done with one sustained effort.
叶公好龙
Lord Ye Loves Dragons
传说古代有个叶公，非常喜欢龙。他家里的墙上、柱子上、门窗上到处都画满了龙，连日常生活用的东西上也画着龙。天上的真龙知道了。非常感动，就下降到他住的地方，将头伸进窗户，尾巴拖在厅堂。叶公一见真龙。吓得脸都变了颜色，拔腿就跑。
In ancient times there was a man called Ye Gong who was very fond of dragons. In his home everything, including the walls, windows, doors and even articles of daily use, were decorated with dragon designs. A real dragon was quite impressed when it heard about this, so it went to visit Ye Gong. However, when it stuck its head through the window Ye Gong was frightened and ran away.
“叶公好龙”这个成语比喻表面上爱好某种事物，但实际上并不真正爱好。或者假装爱好，实际惧怕。
This idiom satirizes those who profess to like or support something, but are averse to it in actual practice.
滥竽充数
Passing Oneself Off as a Member of the Orchestra
战国时代，齐宣王非常喜欢听吹竽，而且每次总要三百人同时吹。有一个南郭先生，本来不会吹竽，也混在中间凑数。后来，齐宣王死了，他的儿子齐湣王继位。湣王不喜欢听很多人同时吹竽，而要听一个人一个人地吹。南郭先生知道自己没办法再混下去了，就偷偷地溜走了。
In the Warring States Period, King Xuan of the State of Qi loved to listen to the yu -- an ancient wind instrument. He would order 300 musicians at a time to play the yu for him. Mr Nan Guo, who couldn't play the instrument, passed himself off as one of the musicians. When King Xuan died, his son King Min succeeded to the throne. King Min also loved yu, but he preferred solo performances. Mr Nan Guo thereupon slipped away from the orchestra.
“滥竽充数”这个成语比喻没有本领而冒充有本领，或者拿次货冒充好货。
This idiom is used to describe those who have no actual skills but pretend to be experts, or the passing off of inferior things as high quality ones.
草木皆兵
Every Bush and Tree Looks like an Enemy
公元383年，前秦国王苻坚带了80万大军攻打东晋。在淝水一带，被晋朝大将谢玄的前锋部队打得大败。苻坚登上寿阳城，看见晋军阵容严整，心里害怕起来。再远望八公山上长着许多草和树木，也以为是东晋的士兵，更加惊恐万分。后来苻坚终于全军覆没，带着少数残余的队伍逃了回去。
In AD 383, the king of Former Qin, Fu Jian, led a huge army to attack Eastern Jin. After losing the first round of fighting, Fu Jian looked down from a city wall, and was terrified when he saw the formidable battle array of the Eastern Jin army. And then looking at the mountain around, he mistook the grass and trees for enemy soldiers. As a result, when the nervous Fu Jian led his army into battle, it suffered a crushing defeat.
这个成语用来形容人在极度惊恐时，疑神疑鬼的心理状态。
This idiom describes how one can defeat oneself by imagining difficulties.
三顾茅庐
Paying Three Visits to the Cottage
三国时，诸葛亮居住在隆中的茅芦里，刘备听说诸葛亮很有学识，又有才能，就带着礼物去请他出来辅助自己打天下。刘备一共去了三次，最后才见到诸葛亮。诸葛亮见刘备十分诚恳，终于答应了他的请求。从此，诸葛亮用全部精力辅助刘备，在军事上和政治上取得了巨大的胜利。
In the Three Kingdoms Period, Zhuge Liang lived in seclusion in a thatched cottage. Liu Bei, hearing that Zhuge Liang was very knowledgeable and capable, went to visit him, taking gifts, hoping that Zhuge Liang would agree to assist him with statecraft. He had to make three visits before Zhuge Liang agreed to do so, impressed by his sincerity. From then on, Zhuge Liang helped Liu Bei with all his heart, and made great achievements in both the military and political spheres.
“三顾茅庐”这个成语用来比喻诚心诚意地一再邀请人家。
This idiom means persisting with sincerity.
掩耳盗铃
Plugging One's Ears While Stealing a Bell
春秋时代，晋国有一个人看中了别人的一口铜钟，想把它偷回自己家里。钟又大又重，抱不动也背不动。他脑子一转，想出了一个办法：把钟砸碎，再一块一块地拿回家。于是他拿起了锤子就砸。刚一砸，钟就发出“当，当，当”的响声。他怕别人听见，急忙把自己的耳朵堵了起来。这个人以为自己听不见别人也就听不见了。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, a man in the State of Jin took a fancy to a bronze bell and wanted to steal it. The bell was too large and heavy to be moved away, so he decided to smash it to pieces. But when his hammer struck the bell, it gave out a deep booming sound. Fearing that he might be heard, he covered his ears, and carried on with the work.
“掩耳盗钟”后来变成“掩耳盗铃”，用来讽刺自作聪明，自己欺骗自己。
This idiom comes from the above story. It is used to satirize those who they are smart but only deceive themselves.
卧薪尝胆
Sleeping on Brushwood and Tasting Gall
春秋时代，越国被吴国打败了。越王勾践和他的妻子都被带到吴国做苦工。后来勾践被放回越国，他立志要报亡国之仇。从此，他每天夜里睡在柴草上面，不用被褥。在他住的地方，悬挂着一个苦胆，吃饭前，都要尝一尝苦胆的味道，以提醒自己不忘过去的耻辱。经过十年的艰苦奋斗，越国终于战胜了吴国。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, the State of Wu defeated the State of Yue, and took the king of Yue, Gou Jian, and his wife prisoner. For several years, Gou Jian laboured as a slave in Wu. When he was released and returned to Yue, Gou Jian was determined to take revenge for losing his state. So that he would never forget his humiliation, he slept on a pile of brushwood and tasted gall before every meal. After ten years of careful preparations, he attacked and finally conquered the State of Wu.
“卧薪尝胆”这个成语用来形容刻苦自励，奋发图强。
This idiom is used to describe inspiring oneself and working hard to accomplish an ambition.
胸有成竹
Having a Ready Formed Plan
宋朝画家文同，特别喜欢画竹子。他在园子里种了许多竹子，经常仔细观察竹子的生长过程，特别是在晴天，雨后以及春夏秋冬不同的季节下竹子的各种形态，对竹子有了较深切的了解。一旦到他提别绘画时，他的胸中早已有了竹子的形象，所以总是能够把竹子画得生动逼真，活灵活现。
In the Song Dynasty, an artist called Wen Tong was especially fond of drawing bamboos. He planted a lot of bamboos in his garden so that he could observe the process of their growth and appearance in different seasons. He knew bamboos so well that whenever he took up the paintbrush he already had a picture in his mind, and thus he could always paint bamboos in a vivid and lively way.
“胸有成竹”用来比喻在做事情以前，已经有了充分成熟的考虑，因而成功的把握很大。
This idiom is used to indicate having a well thought out plan already before one sets out to do something, making success assured.
笑里藏刀
Hiding a Dagger Behind a Smile
唐朝有一个大臣李义府，表面上对人温和恭顺，跟人谈话总是面带微笑。但是，内心深处却十分阴险毒辣。凡是能力比他强大的人，他都要设法加以打击和谋害。当时人们称他是“笑中刀”。
In the Tang Dynasty, there was a minister called Lu Yifu who was always affable and smiling. But in his heart he was very sinister and ruthless. He constantly schemed against people he saw as possible rivals. He was called 'The knife in the smile'.
“笑里藏刀”是由“笑中刀”转化而来的，比喻表面装得善良和气，而内心暗藏阴险毒辣。
This idiom, derived from the above story, means disguising a ruthless nature behind a pleasant appearance.
老马识途
An Old Horse Knows the Way
春秋时代，齐桓公出征攻打北方一个小国。去的时候是春天，遍地绿草茵茵。回来的时候是冬天，白雪茫茫，狂风怒吼，于是齐桓公的队伍迷失了方向。找不到回去的路，大家都很着急。这时，齐桓公的宰相管仲说：“可以利用老马的经验。”于是齐桓公派人挑选了几匹老马在前面引路，果然走出了迷谷，找到了回去的道路。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, Duke Huan of Qi led an army to attack a small state in the north. They went in spring when green grass covered the ground. But when they came back it was winter. Everywhere was white with snow and the wind was howling. The troops lost their way. While everybody was worrying, Guan Zhong, the duke's chief minister, suggested: 'An old horse may know the way.' So the duke ordered several old horse to be selected to lead the army. Finally, they found the way back home.
“老马识途”这个成语用来比喻有经验的人，熟悉情况，办事效果好。
This idiom refers to the value of experience.
如火如荼
Like a Raging Fire
春秋时代，吴王夫差想做几个小国的霸主，率领三万军队向晋军挑战。他命令将士们以一万人为单位摆成一个正方形的阵势。当中的都穿白色衣服，拿着白色的旗帜，远远望去就像遍地盛开着白色荼花。左边的穿红色衣服，拿着红色的旗帜，远远望去就像满上燃烧着熊熊火焰。右边的穿黑色衣服，拿着黑色的旗帜，远远望去就像满天结集着浓密的乌云。夫差想利用这种声势去压倒对方。
During the Spring and Autumn Period, Duke Fu Chai of Wu led a huge army against the State of Jin. He ordered his men to form three square contingents. The middle one was dressed in white and holding white flags, which looked from a distance just like the flowers of a field full of reeds. The left unit was in red and holding red flags, which looked from afar like flaming fire all over the mountains. The right unit was in black and holding black flags, which looked from a distance like thick black clouds covering the sky. Fu Chai was trying to present to the enemy a show of overwhelming force.
“如火如荼”这个成语形容气势旺盛，场面热烈的景象。
This idiom describes a scene of great momentum and exuberance.
天衣无缝
Divine Garments Without Seams
唐朝有个人叫郭翰。一个夏天的晚上，月光非常明亮。他忽然看见天空中有个女子轻盈而缓慢地飘落下来。他仔细地观察那个女子，发现她身上穿的衣服连一条缝也没有，感到非常奇怪，便问那个女子。女子回答说：“天衣本来就用不着针线缝合的呀！”
There was a man called Guo Han in the Tang Dynasty (618-907). One summer night, when the moon was very bright, he suddenly saw a girl descending slowly from the sky. He observed the girl closely, and found that the dress she was wearing was seamless. He was puzzled, and asked why. The girl answered, 'Heavenly clothes are not sewn with needle and thread.'
“天衣无缝”这个成语用来比喻处理事情十分周密，不露一点痕迹。也比喻诗文写得很精辟，找不出一点毛病。
This idiom is used metaphorically to indicate the flawless handling of things. It can also be used to indicate a perfectly written poem or other literary article.
朝三暮四
Three in the Morning and Four in the Evening
春秋时代，宋国有一个人，养了一大群猴子。这些猴子能够听懂主人说的话。过了一段时间，主人家里穷了，想限制一下猴子每天吃的粮食。于是对猴子说：“每天给你们吃的橡子，早上三个，晚上四个，够了吗？”猴子们听了，都怒气冲冲地站立起来。主人又说：“早上四个，晚上三个，够了吗？”猴子么听了，都趴在地上表示满意。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, a man in the State of Song raised monkeys. The monkeys could understand what he said. As the man became poor, he wanted to reduce the monkeys' food. He first suggested that he give them three acorns in the morning and four acorns in the evening. Thereupon, the monkeys protested angrily. Then their owner said, 'How about four in the morning and three in the evening?' The monkeys were satisfied with that.
“朝三暮四”原来表示欺骗和愚弄的手段，以后改用来比喻说话、做事反复无常。
This idiom originally meant to befool others with tricks. Later it is used to mean to keep changing one's mind.
指鹿为马
Calling a Stag a Horse
秦朝丞相赵高想篡夺帝位，怕群臣们不服气，就想了一个办法来试一试大家。他牵来一只鹿献给皇帝说：“这是一匹马。”皇帝笑着说：“丞相你弄错了吧？这是一只鹿。”赵高就问旁边的大臣们。他们有的不做声，有的跟着赵高说是马，也有说是鹿的。凡是说鹿的人，后来都被赵高杀了。从此以后，群臣都害怕赵高。
In the Qin Dynasty, the prime minister, Zhao Gao, plotted to usurp the throne. Fearing that the other ministers would oppose this, he thought of a way of testing them. He presented a deer to the emperor, and said, 'This is a horse.' The emperor laughed, and said, 'You must be joking; this is a deer.' Then Zhao Gao asked the ministers present. Some kept silent, some agreed that it was a horse, and others said that it was a deer. Later Zhao Gao had all the ministers who had said that it was a deer killed.
“指鹿为马”用来比喻故意颠倒黑白，混淆是非。
This metaphor describes distorting facts by calling white black.
杯弓蛇影
Mistaking the Reflection of a Bow for a Snake
晋朝（公元265--420）时，有一个叫乐广的人，请他的朋友到家里喝酒。朋友端起酒杯喝酒的时候，忽然看见杯子里面有条小蛇的影子，他当时勉强将酒喝下。而回家后总是想起这件令人恶心的事，以至于生了病。乐广知道后，就把朋友再次请来，还是坐在原来的地方喝酒。那位朋友这才弄明白了，原来杯中的蛇影，是墙上挂着的一张弓映照出来的。事情弄明白了，病也就好了。
In the Jin Dynasty(265-420), a man called Yue Guang once invited a friend to have a drink at his home. When the friend lifted his cup, he saw a small snake in the wine, yet he forced himself to drink. Back home, the friend recalled the incident, and felt so disgusted that he fell ill. Hearing about this, Yue Guang invited his friend again. He asked him to sit in the same place and drink. Then his friend saw that the image of the snake in the cup was actually the reflection of a bow hung on the wall. Realising this, the friend recovered quickly.
这个成语比喻疑神疑鬼，自相惊扰。
This idiom indicates a condition of being over suspicious bringing trouble on oneself.
夜郎自大
The Conceited King of Yelang
在汉朝时，西南边境上有一个小国，叫夜郎国。这个国家虽然很小，但是国王却很骄傲，自以为他的国家很大，很了不起。有一次，汉朝的使者访问夜郎国，国王问使者：“汉朝与我们夜郎国比较，哪一个大呢？”
In the Han Dynasty, there was a tiny country called Yelang on the southwestern border. Small though it was, its ruler was quite proud of his country, thinking it big and powerful. Once a Han envoy visited Yelang. The ruler asked him: 'which is bigger, Han or Yelang?'
后来人们就把本来没有什么能耐，却自以为很了不起而瞧不起别人，说成“夜郎自大”。
Later this idiom came to be used to refer to those who are capable of nothing yet are conceited.
黔驴技穷
The Guizhou Donkey Has Exhausted Its Tricks
从前，贵州没有驴子。有人从外地带回一头驴子，拴在山下。一只老虎看到了，以为是什么怪物，急忙躲到树林中去偷偷地瞧。驴子大叫一声，老虎吓了一跳，以为驴子要吃掉自己。时间一长，老虎觉得驴子并没有什么恶意，逐渐走近去戏弄它，触犯它。驴子生气了，用蹄子踢老虎。老虎心里想：“你的本领不过就是如此啊！”于是立即扑过去，一口把它咬死吃掉了。
In ancient times there were no donkeys in Guizhou Province. Somebody brought a donkey from somewhere and tied it to a tree at the foot of a mountain. A tiger saw the donkey, and thought that it must be a fearsome monster. It hid behind a tree and spied on the donkey. When the donkey brayed, the tiger was frightened, thinking that the donkey was about to devour it. After a while, seeing that the donkey had not moved, the tiger approached it and teased it. The donkey became angry, and kicked the tiger. The tiger thought to itself: 'Is that all it is capable of?' It then jumped on the donkey and ate it.
“黔驴技穷”这个成语比喻仅有的一点本事也用完了，再没有别的办法了。
This idiom is used to mean that one has exhausted one's skills.
揠苗助长
Pulling Up Seedlings to Help Them Grow
春秋时代，宋国有个急性子的种田人，庄稼长出禾苗以后，他每天都去观看，总嫌禾苗长得太慢。一天，他跑到田地里去，把禾苗一棵棵往上拔。然后很疲倦地回到家，对家里人说：“今天我帮助禾苗长高了！”家里人一听，赶忙跑到田里去看，禾苗全部都枯萎了。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, there was a farmer who was impatient by nature. He thought his rice shoots were growing too slowly, so he decided to help them by pulling them. One day at dusk, he went back home dog-tired and said to his family: 'I helped the rice shoots grow today.' Hearing this, his son hurried to the field, only to find that all the plants had withered.
“揠苗助长”这个成语，现在多写成“拔苗助长”，比喻违背事物发展的客观规律，急于求成，反而把事情弄遭。
This idiom is now often written 拔苗助长. It refers to spoiling things because of being over-anxious for results and ignoring the law of nature.
打草惊蛇
Beating the Grass and Flushing Out the Snake
古时候有一个县官，贪污受贿，谋取私利。有一次，有人写了一个状子，控告他的秘书贪污受贿。这个县官一边看状子，一边直打寒颤。他在状子后面写了八个字：“汝虽打草，吾已惊蛇。”（“你虽然打的是地上的草，但我就像伏在草里面的蛇，已经受到惊吓了。”）
In ancient times there was a county magistrate who took bribes and practised graft. One day, somebody sent him a petition accusing his secretary of practising graft and taking bribes. The magistrate trembled when he read the petition. He wrote on it: 'You have beaten the grass and frightened a snake.'
这个成语比喻做机密的事行动不小心，使对方觉察后有所防备。
This idiom refers to alerting the target of one's scheme by being incautious.
details:
唐朝的时候，有一个名叫王鲁的人，他在衙门做官的时候，常常接受贿赂、不遵守法规。有一天，有人递了一张状纸到衙门，控告王鲁的部下违法、接受贿赂。王鲁一看，状纸上所写的各种罪状，和他自己平日的违法行为一模一样。王鲁一边看着状纸，一边发着抖：「这...这不是在说我吗？」
王鲁愈看愈害怕，都忘状纸要怎么批，居然在状纸上写下了八个大字：「汝虽打草，吾已蛇惊。」意思就是说你这样做，目的是为了打地上的草，但我就像是躲在草里面的蛇一样，可是被大大的吓了一跳了！
后来，大家就根据王鲁所写的八个字「汝虽打草，吾已蛇惊」，引伸为“打草惊蛇”这句成语，用来形容对付別人的时候，因为一个无心的小动作，却让对方觉察到而提防警觉。
狼狈为奸
A wolf Working Hand in Glove with a Jackal
狼和狈常常结伴出外伤害牲畜。有一次，狼和狈一起来到一个羊圈外面。羊圈很高，又很坚固，叼不走里面的羊。狼和狈就想了一个办法：因为狼的前脚长后脚短，狈的前脚短后脚长，狼骑在狈的颈上，狈用长长的后脚站起来，狼就用长长的前脚攀住羊圈，终于把羊叼走了。
A wolf and a jackal often went hunting together. Once they came to a sheepfold the walls of which were firmly built and too high for them to get over. Then they had an idea: Since the wolf had long forelegs and short hindlegs while the jackal had short forelegs and long hindlegs, the wolf stood on the neck of the jackal, and the jackal stood up on its hindlegs. In this was the wolf climbed over the wall to where the sheep were.
“狼狈为奸”这个成语比喻坏人互相勾结起来干坏事。
This idiom is used to describe doing evil things in collusion with others.
details:
源于唐代段成式的《酉阳杂俎》。据说狼和狈是一类动物。狼的前腿长，后腿短；狈则相反，前腿短，后腿长。狈每次出去都必须依靠狼，把它的前腿搭在狼的后腿上才能行动，否则就会寸步难行。有一次，狼和狈走到一个人家的羊圈外面，虽然里面有许多只羊，但是羊圈既高又坚固，于是它们想出了一个好主意：让狼骑在狈的脖子上，再由狈用两条长的后腿直立起来，把狼驮得很高，然后，狼就用它两条长长的前脚，攀住羊圈，把羊叼走。从此，人们用“狼狈为奸”来比喻互相勾结，共干坏事。
为虎作伥
Helping the Tiger to Pounce upon Its Victims
古代有个奇怪的传说：有一只老虎把人咬死以后，吃掉人身上的肉，却不让他的灵魂离开。这个灵魂下次还要帮着老虎去吃人，这样的人叫伥鬼。伥鬼带着老虎去寻找第二个人，让老虎再把那个人咬死、吃掉，这时伥鬼才能够获得自由。
An ancient legend has it that a tiger ate a man, and the man's soul could not be freed until it found another man for the tiger to eat.
这个可笑的传说，后来就变成了“为虎作伥”这个成语，用来比喻替恶人做帮凶，引诱或帮助恶人干坏事。
This idiom means to do evil things in the service of the wicked.
望洋兴叹
Gazing at the Ocean and Sighing
有一年秋天，河里发了大水，河水淹没了田地和树林，到处都是白茫茫的一片。河神看到这种景象，自以为很伟大，很了不起。他顺着河水来到了北海，望见海洋无边无际，水几乎和天空连在一起，这时他才感叹起来，觉得自己真是太渺小了。
One autumn, the rivers flooded, leaving a vast expanse of water everywhere. Seeing this, the god of the rivers was filled with pride at his vast domain. He then journeyed to the Northern Sea. When he saw the mighty ocean stretching to the horizon, he realized how puny he actually was, and sighed with disappointment.
“望洋兴叹”原来的意思是：看到人家的伟大，才感到自己很渺小。现在多用来比喻做事力量不够，无从着手，而感到无可奈何。
This idiom originally meant feeling one's own insignificance upon seeing another's might. Now it is mostly used to indicate being able to do nothing but sigh in the face of a huge task.
details:
秋水时至，百川灌河；泾流之大，两渚崖之间，不辨牛马。于是焉河伯欣然自喜，以天下之美，为尽在己。顺流而东行，至于北海，东面而视，不见水端。
于是焉年，河伯始旋其面目，望洋向若而叹曰：“野语有之曰：‘闻道百，以为莫己若者’，我之谓也。
且夫我尝闻少仲尼之闻而轻伯夷之义者。始吾弗信，今我睹子之难穷也。之门，则殆矣，吾吾非至于子长见笑于大方之家。”
注释
灌―――－灌溉、注入的意思。
泾――――泾水，这里指水脉。
涘渚崖――涘，水边。渚，水中间现出的小块陆地。崖，河岸。
河伯―――水神。
若――――海神的名字。
殆――――糟糕、危险的意思
评点
本文嘲讽了那类“听讲过一些道理，便自以为什么都懂，再没有比得上自己的人”，教导我们要善于看到别人的长处，学会取长补短。
偃旗息鼓
To Lower the Banners and Silence the Drums
三国时代，一次曹操与刘备交战。刘备命令大将赵云、黄忠去抢夺曹操的粮食。曹操带领大军追赶赵云。赵云边打边退，一直退到营寨前，叫士兵打开营门，放倒军旗，停止擂鼓，在营外设好埋伏。曹军追到，看到这种情景，怀疑有埋伏，就撤退了。
In the Three Kingdoms Period, during a battle between Cao Cao and Liu Bei, the latter ordered his generals Zhao Yun and Huang Zhong to capture Cao Cao's supplies. Cao Cao led a large force against Zhao Yun, who retreated as far as the gates of his camp. There, he ordered that the banners be lowered and the war drums silenced, and that the camp gates be left wide open. Zhao Yun then stationed his troops in ambush nearly. When Cao Cao arrived and saw the situation, he immediately suspected a trap and withdrew his forces.
“偃旗息鼓”这个成语现在用来比喻停止攻击或者事情中止。
This idiom is nowadays used to indicate metaphorically halting an attack or ceasing all activities.
望梅止渴
Looking at Plums to Quench the Thirst
三国时代，有一次曹操带领军队去打仗。在行军的路上，找不到水源，士兵们都感到口渴难忍。曹操想出一个计策，指着前面一片树林说：“那里就是一大片梅林，树上的梅子又甜又酸，可以解渴。”士兵们听了，想起梅子的酸味，一个个都留出了口水，再也不觉的口渴了。
In the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), Cao Cao was once on a campaign during which his men failed to find any water. Cao Cao told them: "There are plum trees ahead. The sweet and sour plums will relieve your thirst." Hearing this, the soldiers thought of the plums and their mouths watered. This cured their thirst.
“望梅止渴”这个成语比喻用空想来安慰自己。
This idiom means to comfort oneself with fantasy.
病入膏肓
The Disease Has Attacked the Vitals
春秋时代，晋景公生了病。病中梦见自己的疾病变成两个小人再他旁边谈话。一个说：“我害怕医生会伤害我们。”另一个说：“不要怕，我们躲到肓的上面，膏的下面，医生能把我们怎样！”第二天，医生来给他诊断病情时说：“你的病没法子治啦！病在肓上面，膏的下面，药剂的效力无法到达了。”
In the Spring and Autumn Period, King Jing of the State of Jin fell ill. One night he dreamed that the disease turned into two small figures talking beside him. One said, "I'm afraid the doctor will hurt us." The other said, "Don't worry. We can hide above huang and below gao. Then the doctor will be able to do nothing to us." The next day, having examined the king, the doctor said, "Your disease is incurable, I am afraid, Your Majesty. It's above huang and below gao, where no medicine can reach."
这个成语比喻事情已经非常严重，到了不可挽救的程度。
This idiom indicates a hopeless condition.
Notes:
膏肓：我国古代医学上把心尖脂肪叫膏，心脏和隔膜之间叫肓，认为是药力达不到的地方。
四面楚歌
Songs of Chu on All Sides
秦朝末年，楚和汉争夺天下。楚王项羽被汉王刘邦的军队紧紧地围困在垓下这个地方。项羽的兵士已经很少，粮食也没有了，危机万分。夜里，四面包围着的汉军唱起了楚地的民歌。项羽听了，非常吃惊地说：“汉军已经全部占领了楚国的土地吗？为什么在汉军中有这么多的人会唱楚歌呢？”说着就从床上爬起来，带着残余的士兵惊慌地逃走了。
At the end of the Qin Dynasty (BC 221-206), the State of Chu and the State of Han fought for control of the country. Xiang Yu, the king of Chu, was besieged at a place called Caixia by the Han army led by Liu Bang. Xiang Yu was in a desperate situation, with little food and only a few soldiers. At night, the surrounding Han troops started to sing Chu folk songs. Xiang Yu was very surprised at this, and said, "Has Liu Bang occupied the whole of Chu? How can he have drafted so many Chu people into his army?" Then he fled together with the remainder of his forces.
“四面楚歌”这个成语比喻四面受到敌人的攻击，处于孤立危急的困境。
This idiom is used metaphorically to mean to be in a helpless and critical situation, surrounded by the enemy on all sides.
杞人忧天
The Man of Qi who Worried That the Sky Would Fall
春秋时代，杞国有一个喜欢胡思乱想的人。一天，他竟然想到，天会塌下来，地会陷下去，自己到哪里去安身？这个人越想越害怕，整天愁眉苦脸，坐立不安，白天吃不下饭，晚上睡不着觉。后来有人耐心地开导他，他才放下了心。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, in the State of Qi there was a man who always let his imagination run away with him. One day he even worried that the sky would fall on his head. He was so worried that he could neither eat nor sleep. Later, someone persuaded him that his fears were groundless.
“杞人忧天”这个成语讥笑那些没有必要或毫无根据的忧虑。
This idiom satirizes those who worry unnecessarily.
自相矛盾
Contradicting Oneself
古代有个卖矛和盾的人。他一手举起他的矛夸耀说：“我的矛锋利无比，无论多么坚硬的东西都能刺穿。”过了一会儿，他又举起另一只手里的盾说：“我的盾坚硬无比，无论多么锋利的东西也刺不破。”观众中有一个人问他：“用你的矛刺你的盾，结果会怎样呢？”这个人被问得哑口无言了。
In ancient times, there was a man who sold spears and shields. He used to boast, "My spears are the sharpest things in the world. They can penetrate anything." A moment later he would boast, "My shields are the toughest things in the world. Nothing can penetrate them." One day, a passerby asked him: "What would happen if you threw one of your spears at one of your shields?"
“自相矛盾”用来比喻说话或做事不一致，互相抵触。
This idiom, "contradicting oneself", and the noun 矛盾, contradiction, all came from the above story.
名落孙山
Failing to Pass an Examination
宋朝（公元960-1279）时有一个擅长幽默的人，名叫孙山。有一年，他去参加科举考试。榜发出来，孙山考上了最后一名。回到家乡，一位同乡向他打听自己的儿子考上没有。孙山笑了一笑说：“孙山考上最后一名，您儿子的名字还在孙山后面呢。”
In the Song Dynasty (960-1279) there was a joker called Sun Shan. One year he went to take the imperial examination, and came bottom of the list of successful candidates. Back in his hometown, one of his neighbours asked him whether the neighbour's son had also passed. Sun Shan said, with a smile: "Sun Shan was the last on the list. Your son came after Sun Shan."
后来人们用“名落孙山”来比喻考试没有考上或者选拔没有被录取。
Later, people used this idiom to indicate failing in an examination or competition.
details:
源于宋代范公冉的《过庭录》。
宋朝有一个名叫孙山的读书人，他不但聪明过人，而且能说会道，滑稽诙谐，当时人们称呼他“滑稽才子”。有一年，他和一个同乡前去投考举人。发榜的时候，碰巧孙山的名字是最后一名，而他的同乡却没有考中。孙山心里非常高兴，他兴冲冲地回到家里，别人问他同乡是否中举，孙山不便说，顺口编了两句诗：“解名尽处是孙山，贤郎更在孙山外。”在封建社会里，考中举人第一名的叫解元，“解名”在这里泛指考取举人的名字。所以全句诗的意思是说，举人榜上的最后一名是孙山，而同乡的名字还落在孙山的后面，委婉说出同乡没有考中的意思。后来，人们用“名落孙山”来表示参加考试没有被录取，榜上无名。
天花乱坠
As If It Were Raining Flowers
南北朝梁武帝的时候，有一个名叫云光的法师，讲经讲得很好。传说他有一次登坛讲经，感动了天上的花神。花神把天上的花纷纷降落下来，洒遍了大地。
In the Southern and Northern Dynasty (420-589), in the reign of King Wu of Liang, there was a monk called Master Yun Guang who was a very accomplished preacher. Once he explained the sutra so profoundly and subtly that the God of Flowers was moved and sent divine flowers down to Earth. Soon the land was covered with flowers.
“天花乱坠”这个成语后来比喻说话有声有色，非常动听（多指夸大的或不切实际的讲话）。
This idiom was later used metaphorically to describe talking in a vivid and eloquent way (mostly in an exaggerated and imparctical manner).
Birds Startled by the Mere Twang of a Bowstring
战国时期（公元前403―221年中国中原地区各诸侯国连年争战的时代）魏国有个名叫更羸的人。一天，他对国王说：“我只要拉开弓，空射一下，就能把天上的鸟射下来。”国王不相信。更羸便对准天上飞来的一只雁射去，果真那只雁听到拉弦的声音就掉了下来。国王感到很奇怪。更羸说，“那是一只受过伤的雁。它一听到我拉开弓弦的声响，就惊慌得支持不住，自然要掉下来了。”
In the Warring States Period, there was a man in the State of Wei called Geng Lei. One day he said to the king: 'I can shoot down birds by simply plucking my bowstring.' When the king expressed doubt, Geng Lei pointed his bow at a wild goose flying in the sky, twanged the bowstring, and the goose fell to the ground. Geng Lei said, 'This goose has been hurt in the past. Hearing the twang of the bowstring, it assumed that it was doomed. So it simply gave up trying to live.'
“惊弓之鸟”这个成语比喻受过惊恐之后，有一点动静就特别害怕。
This idiom means that if one has been frightened in the past one's will may become paralysed in a similar situation.
毛遂自荐
Mao Sui Recommending Himself
战国时代，秦国军队攻打赵国的都城。赵国的平原君打算亲自到楚国去请救兵，想挑选一个精明能干的人一同前去。有一个名叫毛遂的人，自告奋勇愿意同去。平原君到楚国后，与楚王谈了半天，没有一点结果。毛遂怒气冲冲地拿着宝剑，逼近楚王，终于迫使楚王答应出兵，与赵国联合共同抵抗秦国。
In the Warring States Period, the State of Qin besieged the capital of the State of Zhao. Duke Pingyuan of Zhao planned to ask the ruler of the State of Chu personally for assistance. He wanted to select a capable man to go with him. A man called Mao Sui volunteered. When the negoti-actions between the two states were stalled because the ruler of Chu hesitated to send troops, Mao Sui approached him, brandishing a sword. At that, the ruler of Chu agreed to help Zhao, against Qin.
“毛遂自荐”这个成语用来比喻自己推荐自己，不必别人介绍。
This idiom means to recommend oneself.
世外桃源
A Haven of Peace and Happiness
东晋的文学家陶渊明写了一片著名的文章叫《桃花源记》。叙述一个渔人出外捕鱼的时候，偶然来到了桃花源这个地方。从这里通过一个山洞，发现了一个村子，这里的居民是秦朝时避难人的后代。这是一个与世隔绝、没有剥削和压迫、人人安居乐业的美好社会。渔人告别村民回家以后，再也找不到这个地方了。
Tao Yuanming, a famous writer of the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420), wrote the well-known essay Peach-Blossom Spring. In it he tells a story which goes like this: A fisherman happened to come upon a place called Peach-Blossom Spring. Squeezing through a cave, he found a village, the residents of which were descendants of refugees from the Qin Dynasty. It was a paradise isolated from the outside world, without exploitation or oppression, and everybody living and working in peace and contentment. The fisherman left the villagers and went home. But he could never find the place again.
后来，由这个故事产生了“世外桃源”这个成语，用来比喻与世隔绝的、理想的美好世界。
This idiom is derived from the above story, and is used to mean an isolated, ideal world.
南辕北辙
Going South by Driving the Chariot North
从前有个人要到南方去，他坐的车子却向北方行驶。过路人说：“你去南方，车子怎么向北行驶呢？”他回答说：“我的马很能跑路，我的车夫驾车的技术也很高明，加上我又带了充足的路费。”这个人没有考虑到，方向弄反了，他的条件越好，离他要去的地方就越远。
Once a man wanted to go to the south, but his carriage was heading north. A passer-by asked him: 'If you are going to the south, why is your chariot heading north? ' The man answered, 'My horse is good at running, my driver is highly skilled at driving a carriage, and I have enough money. ' The man didn't consider that the direction might be wrong; the better his conditions were, the further he was away from his destination.
后来人们就把这个故事概括为“南辕北辙”，比喻一个人的行为和他的目的正好相反。
The idiom derived from this story indicates that one's action was the opposite effect to one's intention.
画龙点睛
Putting the Finishing Touch to the Picture of a Dragon
南北朝(公元420--589)时期，有个画家叫张僧繇。有一次，他到一个寺庙去游玩，在墙壁上面画了四条龙，可是都没有画出眼睛。看画的人觉得很奇怪，问他为什么不画出眼睛。他说：“眼睛是龙的关键，画上眼睛，龙就会飞走了。”大家不相信他说的话。张僧繇拿起笔来，刚给两条龙点上眼睛，立刻电闪雷鸣，两条龙飞向天空，墙上只剩下两条没有画眼睛的龙。
In the Southern and Northern Dynasties Period (420-589), there was a painter called Zhang Sengyou. Once he visited a temple and painted on the wall four dragons, but gave none of them eyes. The onlookers felt that this was odd, and asked why he hadn't painted the eyes. He answered, 'Eyes are crucial for dragons. With the eyes painted on, the dragons would fly away.' Nobody believed this, so Zhang Sengyou took up his brush and added eyes to two of the dragons. No sooner had he finished than the two dragons flew into the sky amid a thunderstorm. The two without eyes stayed painted on the wall.
“画龙点睛”这个成语用来比喻讲话或写文章时，在关键地方加一两句重要的话，使内容更加生动有力。
This idiom is used to describe how, when writing or speaking, one or two key sentences will enhance the contents.
画蛇添足
Drawing a snake and Adding Feet
战国时代有个楚国人祭他的祖先。仪式结束后，他拿出一壶酒赏给手下的几个人。大家商量说：“我们都来画蛇，谁先画好谁就喝这壶酒。”其中有一个人先画好了。但他看到同伴还没有画完，就又给蛇添上了脚。这时，另一个人也画好了，夺过酒壶吧酒喝了，并且说：“蛇本来是没有脚的，你怎么能给它添上脚呢？”
In the Warring States Period, a man in the State of Chu was offering a sacrifice to his ancestors. After the ceremony, the man gave a beaker of wine to his servants. The servants thought that there was not enough wine for all them, and decided to each draw a picture of a snake; the one who finished the picture first would get the wine. One of them drew very rapidly. Seeing that the others were still busy drawing, he added feet to the snake. At this moment another man finished, snatched the beaker and drank the wine, saying, 'A snake doesn't have feet. How can you add feet to a snake? '
“画蛇添足”这个成语比喻做了多余而不恰当的事，反而把事情弄糟了。
This idiom refers to ruining a venture by doing unnecessary and surplus things.
班门弄斧
Showing Off One's Proficiency with the Axe Before Lu Ban the Master Carpenter
古代有一个建筑和雕刻技术非常高超的人，名叫鲁班，木匠行里尊称他为祖师。传说他曾用木头制作了一只五彩斑斓的凤凰，能够在空中飞翔三天不掉下来。在鲁班门前摆弄斧子，当然显得有些自不量力了。
Lu Ban was supposed to be a consummate carpenter in ancient times. It is said that he once carved a wooden phoenix that was so lifelike that it actually flew in the sky for three days. Thus it was considered the height of folly to show off one's skill with an axe in front of Lu Ban.
“班门弄斧”这个成语，用来比喻在行家面前显示本领。
This idiom excoriates those who show off their slight accomplishments in front of experts.
怒发冲冠
So Angry That One' s Hair Lifts Up One' s Hat
战国时代，赵国的大臣蔺相如出使到秦国。在他向秦王索回玉璧的时候，秦王蛮不讲理，蔺相如气愤得连头发都竖了起来，向上冲着帽子。
In the Warring States Period, Lin Xiangru, chief min-ister of the State of Zhao, was sent as an envoy to the State of Qin to ask the ruler of Qin to return a fine piece of jade to Zhao. But the ruler of Qin was rude and unreasonable. Lin was angry, and his hair stood up so stiffly on his head that it lifted up his hat.
后来人们用“怒发冲冠”这个成语形容人愤怒到了极点。
This idiom came to be used to mean being extremely angry.
画饼充饥
Allaying Hunger with Pictures of Cakes
三国时代魏国的皇帝曹睿，准备选拔一个有才能的人到朝廷来做官。曹睿对他的大臣说：“选择人才，不能光找有虚名的人。虚名好像是在地上画的一块饼，只能看，不能解决肚子饥饿的问题啊！”
In the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), the king of the Wei, Cao Rui, wanted to select a very capable man to work for him. He said to his ministers: 'When choosing a talented person, always beware of one with a false reputation. A false reputation is just like a picture of a cake; it can' t relieve hunger.'
后来人们就用“画饼充饥”这个成语比喻用空想安慰自己，不能解决实际问题。
Later, this idiom came to be used to mean comforting oneself with unrealistic thoughts, without solving practical problems.
一鸣惊人
Amazing the World with a Single Feat
战国时代，齐威王即位后做了三年国君，只顾享乐，不理政事。有个善于说笑话的人叫淳于髡，一天对齐威王说：“城里有一只大鸟，三年不飞也不叫，你知道这是什么道理？”齐威王说：“这鸟不飞则罢，一飞就冲天；不鸣则罢，一鸣就惊人。”在淳于髡的激发下，齐威王开始治理国家，取得很大成绩，齐国的声威一直保持了几十年。
In the Warring States Period, Duke Wei of Qi neglected state affairs, for the first three years of his reign, giving himself over to dissipation. One of his ministers, Chun Yukun who had a good sense of humour, said to him: 'There is a big bird which has neither taken wing nor sung for three years.' The duke answered, 'Once that bird starts to fly and sing, it will astonish the world.' The duke thereupon devoted himself to his duties and built his state up into a powerful one.
“一鸣惊人”用来表示平时默默无闻，一旦行动起来，却做出惊人的成绩。
This idiom is used to indicate that a person may rise from obscurity and achieve greatness.
守株待兔
Sitting by a Stump, Waiting for a Careless Hare
春秋时代，宋国有个农夫，一天在耕田的时候，忽然跑来一只兔子，恰巧碰在树桩上，脖子折断死了。农夫把兔子拾回家去，美美地吃了一顿兔肉。晚上他想：“我何必辛辛苦苦地种地呢？每天在树下能捡到一只兔子就够我吃的了。”于是，他从此不再耕作，每天坐在树下等待兔子的到来。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, a farmer in the State of Song was one day working in the fields when he saw a rabbit bump into a tree stump accidentally and break its neck. The farmer took the rabbit home, and cooked himself a delicious meal. That night he thought, 'I needn't work so hard. All I have to do is wait for a rabbit each day by the stump.' So from then on he gave up farming, and simply sat by the stump waiting for rabbits to come and run into it.
“守株待兔”这个成语，讥笑那些不想经过努力，存在侥幸心理，希望得到意外收获的人。
This idiom satirizes those who just wait for a stroke of luck, rather than making efforts to obtain what they need.
狐假虎威
Basking in Reflected Glory
老虎在山林里捉到了一只狐狸，要吃掉它。狐狸连忙说：“你不能吃我，我是天帝派来统治百兽的。你要吃了我，就违抗了天帝的命令。你不信，就跟我到山林里去一趟，看百兽见了我是不是都很害怕。”老虎相信了狐狸的话，就跟在狐狸的后面走进山林。百兽见了果然都纷纷逃命。老虎以为百兽真的害怕狐狸而不知道是害怕自己，于是就把狐狸给放了。
A tiger caught a fox in a forest, and was just about to eat it, when the fox said, 'You mustn't eat me. I was sent by Heaven to rule the animals. By eating me, you will violate the command of Heaven. If you don't believe me, just follow me to see whether the animals are afraid of me.' The tiger agreed, and followed the fox as it walked around the forest. The animals all ran away on seeing them. The tiger thought they were afraid of the fox, so he let it go. He didn't realise that it was him that the beasts were really afraid of.
“狐假虎威”这个成语用来比喻倚仗别人的势力去欺压人或吓唬人。
This idiom means relying on another's power to bully or frighten others.
破镜重圆
A Broken Mirror Made Whole Agian
南朝陈国(公元557-589)将要灭亡的时候，驸马徐德言把一面铜镜破开，跟妻子各留下一半。双方约定：如果将来夫妻失散了，就把它当作信物。后来，夫妻二人真的失散了，凭借着各人留下的半面镜子，他们最终又得到团圆。
In the Northern and Southern Dynasties when the State of Chen (A.D. 557-589) was facing its demise, Xu Deyan, husband of the princess, broke a bronze mirror into halves. Each of them kept a half as tokens in case they were separated. Soon afterwards, they did lose touch with each other, but the two halves of the mirror enabled them to be reunited.
“破镜重圆”这个成语比喻夫妻失散或分离后重新团聚。
This idiom is used to refer to the reunion of a couple after they lose touch or break up.
一鼓作气
Rousing the Spirits with the First Drum Roll
春秋时代，齐国派兵攻打鲁国。鲁国的国王鲁庄公带着谋士曹刿指挥作战。齐军第一次击鼓以后，鲁军准备发起进攻。曹刿说：“不行。”齐军三次击鼓以后，曹刿才说：“现在可以进攻了。”结果齐军大败。战斗结束后，鲁庄公问曹刿胜利的原因。曹刿说：“打仗要考勇气。第一次击鼓，士气十分旺盛；第二次击鼓，士气有些衰落；第三次击鼓，士气就消耗尽了。敌人士气耗尽，我们发起进攻，所以取得了胜利。”
During the Spring and Autumn Period, an army from the State of Qi confronted one from the State of Lu. After the first roll of drums from the Qi side to summon Lu to battle, the Lu ruler wanted to attack. But his counsellor Cao Gui said, 'We should wait until the third drum roll, sire.' After the Qi side had beaten the drums three times, the Lu army attacked and defeated the Qi army. After the battle, the king asked Cao Gui the reason for his odd advice. Cao Gui answered, 'Fighting needs spirit. Their spirit was aroused by the first roll or the drums, but was depleted by the second. And it was completely exhausted by the third. We started to attack when their spirit was exhausted. That's why we won.'
后来，“一鼓作气”形容鼓起劲头，一下子把事情干完。
This idiom later meant to get something done with one sustained effort.
叶公好龙
Lord Ye Loves Dragons
传说古代有个叶公，非常喜欢龙。他家里的墙上、柱子上、门窗上到处都画满了龙，连日常生活用的东西上也画着龙。天上的真龙知道了。非常感动，就下降到他住的地方，将头伸进窗户，尾巴拖在厅堂。叶公一见真龙。吓得脸都变了颜色，拔腿就跑。
In ancient times there was a man called Ye Gong who was very fond of dragons. In his home everything, including the walls, windows, doors and even articles of daily use, were decorated with dragon designs. A real dragon was quite impressed when it heard about this, so it went to visit Ye Gong. However, when it stuck its head through the window Ye Gong was frightened and ran away.
“叶公好龙”这个成语比喻表面上爱好某种事物，但实际上并不真正爱好。或者假装爱好，实际惧怕。
This idiom satirizes those who profess to like or support something, but are averse to it in actual practice.
滥竽充数
Passing Oneself Off as a Member of the Orchestra
战国时代，齐宣王非常喜欢听吹竽，而且每次总要三百人同时吹。有一个南郭先生，本来不会吹竽，也混在中间凑数。后来，齐宣王死了，他的儿子齐湣王继位。湣王不喜欢听很多人同时吹竽，而要听一个人一个人地吹。南郭先生知道自己没办法再混下去了，就偷偷地溜走了。
In the Warring States Period, King Xuan of the State of Qi loved to listen to the yu -- an ancient wind instrument. He would order 300 musicians at a time to play the yu for him. Mr Nan Guo, who couldn't play the instrument, passed himself off as one of the musicians. When King Xuan died, his son King Min succeeded to the throne. King Min also loved yu, but he preferred solo performances. Mr Nan Guo thereupon slipped away from the orchestra.
“滥竽充数”这个成语比喻没有本领而冒充有本领，或者拿次货冒充好货。
This idiom is used to describe those who have no actual skills but pretend to be experts, or the passing off of inferior things as high quality ones.
草木皆兵
Every Bush and Tree Looks like an Enemy
公元383年，前秦国王苻坚带了80万大军攻打东晋。在淝水一带，被晋朝大将谢玄的前锋部队打得大败。苻坚登上寿阳城，看见晋军阵容严整，心里害怕起来。再远望八公山上长着许多草和树木，也以为是东晋的士兵，更加惊恐万分。后来苻坚终于全军覆没，带着少数残余的队伍逃了回去。
In AD 383, the king of Former Qin, Fu Jian, led a huge army to attack Eastern Jin. After losing the first round of fighting, Fu Jian looked down from a city wall, and was terrified when he saw the formidable battle array of the Eastern Jin army. And then looking at the mountain around, he mistook the grass and trees for enemy soldiers. As a result, when the nervous Fu Jian led his army into battle, it suffered a crushing defeat.
这个成语用来形容人在极度惊恐时，疑神疑鬼的心理状态。
This idiom describes how one can defeat oneself by imagining difficulties.
三顾茅庐
Paying Three Visits to the Cottage
三国时，诸葛亮居住在隆中的茅芦里，刘备听说诸葛亮很有学识，又有才能，就带着礼物去请他出来辅助自己打天下。刘备一共去了三次，最后才见到诸葛亮。诸葛亮见刘备十分诚恳，终于答应了他的请求。从此，诸葛亮用全部精力辅助刘备，在军事上和政治上取得了巨大的胜利。
In the Three Kingdoms Period, Zhuge Liang lived in seclusion in a thatched cottage. Liu Bei, hearing that Zhuge Liang was very knowledgeable and capable, went to visit him, taking gifts, hoping that Zhuge Liang would agree to assist him with statecraft. He had to make three visits before Zhuge Liang agreed to do so, impressed by his sincerity. From then on, Zhuge Liang helped Liu Bei with all his heart, and made great achievements in both the military and political spheres.
“三顾茅庐”这个成语用来比喻诚心诚意地一再邀请人家。
This idiom means persisting with sincerity.
掩耳盗铃
Plugging One's Ears While Stealing a Bell
春秋时代，晋国有一个人看中了别人的一口铜钟，想把它偷回自己家里。钟又大又重，抱不动也背不动。他脑子一转，想出了一个办法：把钟砸碎，再一块一块地拿回家。于是他拿起了锤子就砸。刚一砸，钟就发出“当，当，当”的响声。他怕别人听见，急忙把自己的耳朵堵了起来。这个人以为自己听不见别人也就听不见了。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, a man in the State of Jin took a fancy to a bronze bell and wanted to steal it. The bell was too large and heavy to be moved away, so he decided to smash it to pieces. But when his hammer struck the bell, it gave out a deep booming sound. Fearing that he might be heard, he covered his ears, and carried on with the work.
“掩耳盗钟”后来变成“掩耳盗铃”，用来讽刺自作聪明，自己欺骗自己。
This idiom comes from the above story. It is used to satirize those who they are smart but only deceive themselves.
卧薪尝胆
Sleeping on Brushwood and Tasting Gall
春秋时代，越国被吴国打败了。越王勾践和他的妻子都被带到吴国做苦工。后来勾践被放回越国，他立志要报亡国之仇。从此，他每天夜里睡在柴草上面，不用被褥。在他住的地方，悬挂着一个苦胆，吃饭前，都要尝一尝苦胆的味道，以提醒自己不忘过去的耻辱。经过十年的艰苦奋斗，越国终于战胜了吴国。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, the State of Wu defeated the State of Yue, and took the king of Yue, Gou Jian, and his wife prisoner. For several years, Gou Jian laboured as a slave in Wu. When he was released and returned to Yue, Gou Jian was determined to take revenge for losing his state. So that he would never forget his humiliation, he slept on a pile of brushwood and tasted gall before every meal. After ten years of careful preparations, he attacked and finally conquered the State of Wu.
“卧薪尝胆”这个成语用来形容刻苦自励，奋发图强。
This idiom is used to describe inspiring oneself and working hard to accomplish an ambition.
胸有成竹
Having a Ready Formed Plan
宋朝画家文同，特别喜欢画竹子。他在园子里种了许多竹子，经常仔细观察竹子的生长过程，特别是在晴天，雨后以及春夏秋冬不同的季节下竹子的各种形态，对竹子有了较深切的了解。一旦到他提别绘画时，他的胸中早已有了竹子的形象，所以总是能够把竹子画得生动逼真，活灵活现。
In the Song Dynasty, an artist called Wen Tong was especially fond of drawing bamboos. He planted a lot of bamboos in his garden so that he could observe the process of their growth and appearance in different seasons. He knew bamboos so well that whenever he took up the paintbrush he already had a picture in his mind, and thus he could always paint bamboos in a vivid and lively way.
“胸有成竹”用来比喻在做事情以前，已经有了充分成熟的考虑，因而成功的把握很大。
This idiom is used to indicate having a well thought out plan already before one sets out to do something, making success assured.
笑里藏刀
Hiding a Dagger Behind a Smile
唐朝有一个大臣李义府，表面上对人温和恭顺，跟人谈话总是面带微笑。但是，内心深处却十分阴险毒辣。凡是能力比他强大的人，他都要设法加以打击和谋害。当时人们称他是“笑中刀”。
In the Tang Dynasty, there was a minister called Lu Yifu who was always affable and smiling. But in his heart he was very sinister and ruthless. He constantly schemed against people he saw as possible rivals. He was called 'The knife in the smile'.
“笑里藏刀”是由“笑中刀”转化而来的，比喻表面装得善良和气，而内心暗藏阴险毒辣。
This idiom, derived from the above story, means disguising a ruthless nature behind a pleasant appearance.
老马识途
An Old Horse Knows the Way
春秋时代，齐桓公出征攻打北方一个小国。去的时候是春天，遍地绿草茵茵。回来的时候是冬天，白雪茫茫，狂风怒吼，于是齐桓公的队伍迷失了方向。找不到回去的路，大家都很着急。这时，齐桓公的宰相管仲说：“可以利用老马的经验。”于是齐桓公派人挑选了几匹老马在前面引路，果然走出了迷谷，找到了回去的道路。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, Duke Huan of Qi led an army to attack a small state in the north. They went in spring when green grass covered the ground. But when they came back it was winter. Everywhere was white with snow and the wind was howling. The troops lost their way. While everybody was worrying, Guan Zhong, the duke's chief minister, suggested: 'An old horse may know the way.' So the duke ordered several old horse to be selected to lead the army. Finally, they found the way back home.
“老马识途”这个成语用来比喻有经验的人，熟悉情况，办事效果好。
This idiom refers to the value of experience.
如火如荼
Like a Raging Fire
春秋时代，吴王夫差想做几个小国的霸主，率领三万军队向晋军挑战。他命令将士们以一万人为单位摆成一个正方形的阵势。当中的都穿白色衣服，拿着白色的旗帜，远远望去就像遍地盛开着白色荼花。左边的穿红色衣服，拿着红色的旗帜，远远望去就像满上燃烧着熊熊火焰。右边的穿黑色衣服，拿着黑色的旗帜，远远望去就像满天结集着浓密的乌云。夫差想利用这种声势去压倒对方。
During the Spring and Autumn Period, Duke Fu Chai of Wu led a huge army against the State of Jin. He ordered his men to form three square contingents. The middle one was dressed in white and holding white flags, which looked from a distance just like the flowers of a field full of reeds. The left unit was in red and holding red flags, which looked from afar like flaming fire all over the mountains. The right unit was in black and holding black flags, which looked from a distance like thick black clouds covering the sky. Fu Chai was trying to present to the enemy a show of overwhelming force.
“如火如荼”这个成语形容气势旺盛，场面热烈的景象。
This idiom describes a scene of great momentum and exuberance.
天衣无缝
Divine Garments Without Seams
唐朝有个人叫郭翰。一个夏天的晚上，月光非常明亮。他忽然看见天空中有个女子轻盈而缓慢地飘落下来。他仔细地观察那个女子，发现她身上穿的衣服连一条缝也没有，感到非常奇怪，便问那个女子。女子回答说：“天衣本来就用不着针线缝合的呀！”
There was a man called Guo Han in the Tang Dynasty (618-907). One summer night, when the moon was very bright, he suddenly saw a girl descending slowly from the sky. He observed the girl closely, and found that the dress she was wearing was seamless. He was puzzled, and asked why. The girl answered, 'Heavenly clothes are not sewn with needle and thread.'
“天衣无缝”这个成语用来比喻处理事情十分周密，不露一点痕迹。也比喻诗文写得很精辟，找不出一点毛病。
This idiom is used metaphorically to indicate the flawless handling of things. It can also be used to indicate a perfectly written poem or other literary article.
朝三暮四
Three in the Morning and Four in the Evening
春秋时代，宋国有一个人，养了一大群猴子。这些猴子能够听懂主人说的话。过了一段时间，主人家里穷了，想限制一下猴子每天吃的粮食。于是对猴子说：“每天给你们吃的橡子，早上三个，晚上四个，够了吗？”猴子们听了，都怒气冲冲地站立起来。主人又说：“早上四个，晚上三个，够了吗？”猴子么听了，都趴在地上表示满意。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, a man in the State of Song raised monkeys. The monkeys could understand what he said. As the man became poor, he wanted to reduce the monkeys' food. He first suggested that he give them three acorns in the morning and four acorns in the evening. Thereupon, the monkeys protested angrily. Then their owner said, 'How about four in the morning and three in the evening?' The monkeys were satisfied with that.
“朝三暮四”原来表示欺骗和愚弄的手段，以后改用来比喻说话、做事反复无常。
This idiom originally meant to befool others with tricks. Later it is used to mean to keep changing one's mind.
指鹿为马
Calling a Stag a Horse
秦朝丞相赵高想篡夺帝位，怕群臣们不服气，就想了一个办法来试一试大家。他牵来一只鹿献给皇帝说：“这是一匹马。”皇帝笑着说：“丞相你弄错了吧？这是一只鹿。”赵高就问旁边的大臣们。他们有的不做声，有的跟着赵高说是马，也有说是鹿的。凡是说鹿的人，后来都被赵高杀了。从此以后，群臣都害怕赵高。
In the Qin Dynasty, the prime minister, Zhao Gao, plotted to usurp the throne. Fearing that the other ministers would oppose this, he thought of a way of testing them. He presented a deer to the emperor, and said, 'This is a horse.' The emperor laughed, and said, 'You must be joking; this is a deer.' Then Zhao Gao asked the ministers present. Some kept silent, some agreed that it was a horse, and others said that it was a deer. Later Zhao Gao had all the ministers who had said that it was a deer killed.
“指鹿为马”用来比喻故意颠倒黑白，混淆是非。
This metaphor describes distorting facts by calling white black.
杯弓蛇影
Mistaking the Reflection of a Bow for a Snake
晋朝（公元265--420）时，有一个叫乐广的人，请他的朋友到家里喝酒。朋友端起酒杯喝酒的时候，忽然看见杯子里面有条小蛇的影子，他当时勉强将酒喝下。而回家后总是想起这件令人恶心的事，以至于生了病。乐广知道后，就把朋友再次请来，还是坐在原来的地方喝酒。那位朋友这才弄明白了，原来杯中的蛇影，是墙上挂着的一张弓映照出来的。事情弄明白了，病也就好了。
In the Jin Dynasty(265-420), a man called Yue Guang once invited a friend to have a drink at his home. When the friend lifted his cup, he saw a small snake in the wine, yet he forced himself to drink. Back home, the friend recalled the incident, and felt so disgusted that he fell ill. Hearing about this, Yue Guang invited his friend again. He asked him to sit in the same place and drink. Then his friend saw that the image of the snake in the cup was actually the reflection of a bow hung on the wall. Realising this, the friend recovered quickly.
这个成语比喻疑神疑鬼，自相惊扰。
This idiom indicates a condition of being over suspicious bringing trouble on oneself.
夜郎自大
The Conceited King of Yelang
在汉朝时，西南边境上有一个小国，叫夜郎国。这个国家虽然很小，但是国王却很骄傲，自以为他的国家很大，很了不起。有一次，汉朝的使者访问夜郎国，国王问使者：“汉朝与我们夜郎国比较，哪一个大呢？”
In the Han Dynasty, there was a tiny country called Yelang on the southwestern border. Small though it was, its ruler was quite proud of his country, thinking it big and powerful. Once a Han envoy visited Yelang. The ruler asked him: 'which is bigger, Han or Yelang?'
后来人们就把本来没有什么能耐，却自以为很了不起而瞧不起别人，说成“夜郎自大”。
Later this idiom came to be used to refer to those who are capable of nothing yet are conceited.
黔驴技穷
The Guizhou Donkey Has Exhausted Its Tricks
从前，贵州没有驴子。有人从外地带回一头驴子，拴在山下。一只老虎看到了，以为是什么怪物，急忙躲到树林中去偷偷地瞧。驴子大叫一声，老虎吓了一跳，以为驴子要吃掉自己。时间一长，老虎觉得驴子并没有什么恶意，逐渐走近去戏弄它，触犯它。驴子生气了，用蹄子踢老虎。老虎心里想：“你的本领不过就是如此啊！”于是立即扑过去，一口把它咬死吃掉了。
In ancient times there were no donkeys in Guizhou Province. Somebody brought a donkey from somewhere and tied it to a tree at the foot of a mountain. A tiger saw the donkey, and thought that it must be a fearsome monster. It hid behind a tree and spied on the donkey. When the donkey brayed, the tiger was frightened, thinking that the donkey was about to devour it. After a while, seeing that the donkey had not moved, the tiger approached it and teased it. The donkey became angry, and kicked the tiger. The tiger thought to itself: 'Is that all it is capable of?' It then jumped on the donkey and ate it.
“黔驴技穷”这个成语比喻仅有的一点本事也用完了，再没有别的办法了。
This idiom is used to mean that one has exhausted one's skills.
揠苗助长
Pulling Up Seedlings to Help Them Grow
春秋时代，宋国有个急性子的种田人，庄稼长出禾苗以后，他每天都去观看，总嫌禾苗长得太慢。一天，他跑到田地里去，把禾苗一棵棵往上拔。然后很疲倦地回到家，对家里人说：“今天我帮助禾苗长高了！”家里人一听，赶忙跑到田里去看，禾苗全部都枯萎了。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, there was a farmer who was impatient by nature. He thought his rice shoots were growing too slowly, so he decided to help them by pulling them. One day at dusk, he went back home dog-tired and said to his family: 'I helped the rice shoots grow today.' Hearing this, his son hurried to the field, only to find that all the plants had withered.
“揠苗助长”这个成语，现在多写成“拔苗助长”，比喻违背事物发展的客观规律，急于求成，反而把事情弄遭。
This idiom is now often written 拔苗助长. It refers to spoiling things because of being over-anxious for results and ignoring the law of nature.
打草惊蛇
Beating the Grass and Flushing Out the Snake
古时候有一个县官，贪污受贿，谋取私利。有一次，有人写了一个状子，控告他的秘书贪污受贿。这个县官一边看状子，一边直打寒颤。他在状子后面写了八个字：“汝虽打草，吾已惊蛇。”（“你虽然打的是地上的草，但我就像伏在草里面的蛇，已经受到惊吓了。”）
In ancient times there was a county magistrate who took bribes and practised graft. One day, somebody sent him a petition accusing his secretary of practising graft and taking bribes. The magistrate trembled when he read the petition. He wrote on it: 'You have beaten the grass and frightened a snake.'
这个成语比喻做机密的事行动不小心，使对方觉察后有所防备。
This idiom refers to alerting the target of one's scheme by being incautious.
details:
唐朝的时候，有一个名叫王鲁的人，他在衙门做官的时候，常常接受贿赂、不遵守法规。有一天，有人递了一张状纸到衙门，控告王鲁的部下违法、接受贿赂。王鲁一看，状纸上所写的各种罪状，和他自己平日的违法行为一模一样。王鲁一边看着状纸，一边发着抖：「这...这不是在说我吗？」
王鲁愈看愈害怕，都忘状纸要怎么批，居然在状纸上写下了八个大字：「汝虽打草，吾已蛇惊。」意思就是说你这样做，目的是为了打地上的草，但我就像是躲在草里面的蛇一样，可是被大大的吓了一跳了！
后来，大家就根据王鲁所写的八个字「汝虽打草，吾已蛇惊」，引伸为“打草惊蛇”这句成语，用来形容对付別人的时候，因为一个无心的小动作，却让对方觉察到而提防警觉。
狼狈为奸
A wolf Working Hand in Glove with a Jackal
狼和狈常常结伴出外伤害牲畜。有一次，狼和狈一起来到一个羊圈外面。羊圈很高，又很坚固，叼不走里面的羊。狼和狈就想了一个办法：因为狼的前脚长后脚短，狈的前脚短后脚长，狼骑在狈的颈上，狈用长长的后脚站起来，狼就用长长的前脚攀住羊圈，终于把羊叼走了。
A wolf and a jackal often went hunting together. Once they came to a sheepfold the walls of which were firmly built and too high for them to get over. Then they had an idea: Since the wolf had long forelegs and short hindlegs while the jackal had short forelegs and long hindlegs, the wolf stood on the neck of the jackal, and the jackal stood up on its hindlegs. In this was the wolf climbed over the wall to where the sheep were.
“狼狈为奸”这个成语比喻坏人互相勾结起来干坏事。
This idiom is used to describe doing evil things in collusion with others.
details:
源于唐代段成式的《酉阳杂俎》。据说狼和狈是一类动物。狼的前腿长，后腿短；狈则相反，前腿短，后腿长。狈每次出去都必须依靠狼，把它的前腿搭在狼的后腿上才能行动，否则就会寸步难行。有一次，狼和狈走到一个人家的羊圈外面，虽然里面有许多只羊，但是羊圈既高又坚固，于是它们想出了一个好主意：让狼骑在狈的脖子上，再由狈用两条长的后腿直立起来，把狼驮得很高，然后，狼就用它两条长长的前脚，攀住羊圈，把羊叼走。从此，人们用“狼狈为奸”来比喻互相勾结，共干坏事。
为虎作伥
Helping the Tiger to Pounce upon Its Victims
古代有个奇怪的传说：有一只老虎把人咬死以后，吃掉人身上的肉，却不让他的灵魂离开。这个灵魂下次还要帮着老虎去吃人，这样的人叫伥鬼。伥鬼带着老虎去寻找第二个人，让老虎再把那个人咬死、吃掉，这时伥鬼才能够获得自由。
An ancient legend has it that a tiger ate a man, and the man's soul could not be freed until it found another man for the tiger to eat.
这个可笑的传说，后来就变成了“为虎作伥”这个成语，用来比喻替恶人做帮凶，引诱或帮助恶人干坏事。
This idiom means to do evil things in the service of the wicked.
望洋兴叹
Gazing at the Ocean and Sighing
有一年秋天，河里发了大水，河水淹没了田地和树林，到处都是白茫茫的一片。河神看到这种景象，自以为很伟大，很了不起。他顺着河水来到了北海，望见海洋无边无际，水几乎和天空连在一起，这时他才感叹起来，觉得自己真是太渺小了。
One autumn, the rivers flooded, leaving a vast expanse of water everywhere. Seeing this, the god of the rivers was filled with pride at his vast domain. He then journeyed to the Northern Sea. When he saw the mighty ocean stretching to the horizon, he realized how puny he actually was, and sighed with disappointment.
“望洋兴叹”原来的意思是：看到人家的伟大，才感到自己很渺小。现在多用来比喻做事力量不够，无从着手，而感到无可奈何。
This idiom originally meant feeling one's own insignificance upon seeing another's might. Now it is mostly used to indicate being able to do nothing but sigh in the face of a huge task.
details:
秋水时至，百川灌河；泾流之大，两渚崖之间，不辨牛马。于是焉河伯欣然自喜，以天下之美，为尽在己。顺流而东行，至于北海，东面而视，不见水端。
于是焉年，河伯始旋其面目，望洋向若而叹曰：“野语有之曰：‘闻道百，以为莫己若者’，我之谓也。
且夫我尝闻少仲尼之闻而轻伯夷之义者。始吾弗信，今我睹子之难穷也。之门，则殆矣，吾吾非至于子长见笑于大方之家。”
注释
灌―――－灌溉、注入的意思。
泾――――泾水，这里指水脉。
涘渚崖――涘，水边。渚，水中间现出的小块陆地。崖，河岸。
河伯―――水神。
若――――海神的名字。
殆――――糟糕、危险的意思
评点
本文嘲讽了那类“听讲过一些道理，便自以为什么都懂，再没有比得上自己的人”，教导我们要善于看到别人的长处，学会取长补短。
偃旗息鼓
To Lower the Banners and Silence the Drums
三国时代，一次曹操与刘备交战。刘备命令大将赵云、黄忠去抢夺曹操的粮食。曹操带领大军追赶赵云。赵云边打边退，一直退到营寨前，叫士兵打开营门，放倒军旗，停止擂鼓，在营外设好埋伏。曹军追到，看到这种情景，怀疑有埋伏，就撤退了。
In the Three Kingdoms Period, during a battle between Cao Cao and Liu Bei, the latter ordered his generals Zhao Yun and Huang Zhong to capture Cao Cao's supplies. Cao Cao led a large force against Zhao Yun, who retreated as far as the gates of his camp. There, he ordered that the banners be lowered and the war drums silenced, and that the camp gates be left wide open. Zhao Yun then stationed his troops in ambush nearly. When Cao Cao arrived and saw the situation, he immediately suspected a trap and withdrew his forces.
“偃旗息鼓”这个成语现在用来比喻停止攻击或者事情中止。
This idiom is nowadays used to indicate metaphorically halting an attack or ceasing all activities.
望梅止渴
Looking at Plums to Quench the Thirst
三国时代，有一次曹操带领军队去打仗。在行军的路上，找不到水源，士兵们都感到口渴难忍。曹操想出一个计策，指着前面一片树林说：“那里就是一大片梅林，树上的梅子又甜又酸，可以解渴。”士兵们听了，想起梅子的酸味，一个个都留出了口水，再也不觉的口渴了。
In the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), Cao Cao was once on a campaign during which his men failed to find any water. Cao Cao told them: "There are plum trees ahead. The sweet and sour plums will relieve your thirst." Hearing this, the soldiers thought of the plums and their mouths watered. This cured their thirst.
“望梅止渴”这个成语比喻用空想来安慰自己。
This idiom means to comfort oneself with fantasy.
病入膏肓
The Disease Has Attacked the Vitals
春秋时代，晋景公生了病。病中梦见自己的疾病变成两个小人再他旁边谈话。一个说：“我害怕医生会伤害我们。”另一个说：“不要怕，我们躲到肓的上面，膏的下面，医生能把我们怎样！”第二天，医生来给他诊断病情时说：“你的病没法子治啦！病在肓上面，膏的下面，药剂的效力无法到达了。”
In the Spring and Autumn Period, King Jing of the State of Jin fell ill. One night he dreamed that the disease turned into two small figures talking beside him. One said, "I'm afraid the doctor will hurt us." The other said, "Don't worry. We can hide above huang and below gao. Then the doctor will be able to do nothing to us." The next day, having examined the king, the doctor said, "Your disease is incurable, I am afraid, Your Majesty. It's above huang and below gao, where no medicine can reach."
这个成语比喻事情已经非常严重，到了不可挽救的程度。
This idiom indicates a hopeless condition.
Notes:
膏肓：我国古代医学上把心尖脂肪叫膏，心脏和隔膜之间叫肓，认为是药力达不到的地方。
四面楚歌
Songs of Chu on All Sides
秦朝末年，楚和汉争夺天下。楚王项羽被汉王刘邦的军队紧紧地围困在垓下这个地方。项羽的兵士已经很少，粮食也没有了，危机万分。夜里，四面包围着的汉军唱起了楚地的民歌。项羽听了，非常吃惊地说：“汉军已经全部占领了楚国的土地吗？为什么在汉军中有这么多的人会唱楚歌呢？”说着就从床上爬起来，带着残余的士兵惊慌地逃走了。
At the end of the Qin Dynasty (BC 221-206), the State of Chu and the State of Han fought for control of the country. Xiang Yu, the king of Chu, was besieged at a place called Caixia by the Han army led by Liu Bang. Xiang Yu was in a desperate situation, with little food and only a few soldiers. At night, the surrounding Han troops started to sing Chu folk songs. Xiang Yu was very surprised at this, and said, "Has Liu Bang occupied the whole of Chu? How can he have drafted so many Chu people into his army?" Then he fled together with the remainder of his forces.
“四面楚歌”这个成语比喻四面受到敌人的攻击，处于孤立危急的困境。
This idiom is used metaphorically to mean to be in a helpless and critical situation, surrounded by the enemy on all sides.
杞人忧天
The Man of Qi who Worried That the Sky Would Fall
春秋时代，杞国有一个喜欢胡思乱想的人。一天，他竟然想到，天会塌下来，地会陷下去，自己到哪里去安身？这个人越想越害怕，整天愁眉苦脸，坐立不安，白天吃不下饭，晚上睡不着觉。后来有人耐心地开导他，他才放下了心。
In the Spring and Autumn Period, in the State of Qi there was a man who always let his imagination run away with him. One day he even worried that the sky would fall on his head. He was so worried that he could neither eat nor sleep. Later, someone persuaded him that his fears were groundless.
“杞人忧天”这个成语讥笑那些没有必要或毫无根据的忧虑。
This idiom satirizes those who worry unnecessarily.
自相矛盾
Contradicting Oneself
古代有个卖矛和盾的人。他一手举起他的矛夸耀说：“我的矛锋利无比，无论多么坚硬的东西都能刺穿。”过了一会儿，他又举起另一只手里的盾说：“我的盾坚硬无比，无论多么锋利的东西也刺不破。”观众中有一个人问他：“用你的矛刺你的盾，结果会怎样呢？”这个人被问得哑口无言了。
In ancient times, there was a man who sold spears and shields. He used to boast, "My spears are the sharpest things in the world. They can penetrate anything." A moment later he would boast, "My shields are the toughest things in the world. Nothing can penetrate them." One day, a passerby asked him: "What would happen if you threw one of your spears at one of your shields?"
“自相矛盾”用来比喻说话或做事不一致，互相抵触。
This idiom, "contradicting oneself", and the noun 矛盾, contradiction, all came from the above story.
名落孙山
Failing to Pass an Examination
宋朝（公元960-1279）时有一个擅长幽默的人，名叫孙山。有一年，他去参加科举考试。榜发出来，孙山考上了最后一名。回到家乡，一位同乡向他打听自己的儿子考上没有。孙山笑了一笑说：“孙山考上最后一名，您儿子的名字还在孙山后面呢。”
In the Song Dynasty (960-1279) there was a joker called Sun Shan. One year he went to take the imperial examination, and came bottom of the list of successful candidates. Back in his hometown, one of his neighbours asked him whether the neighbour's son had also passed. Sun Shan said, with a smile: "Sun Shan was the last on the list. Your son came after Sun Shan."
后来人们用“名落孙山”来比喻考试没有考上或者选拔没有被录取。
Later, people used this idiom to indicate failing in an examination or competition.
details:
源于宋代范公冉的《过庭录》。
宋朝有一个名叫孙山的读书人，他不但聪明过人，而且能说会道，滑稽诙谐，当时人们称呼他“滑稽才子”。有一年，他和一个同乡前去投考举人。发榜的时候，碰巧孙山的名字是最后一名，而他的同乡却没有考中。孙山心里非常高兴，他兴冲冲地回到家里，别人问他同乡是否中举，孙山不便说，顺口编了两句诗：“解名尽处是孙山，贤郎更在孙山外。”在封建社会里，考中举人第一名的叫解元，“解名”在这里泛指考取举人的名字。所以全句诗的意思是说，举人榜上的最后一名是孙山，而同乡的名字还落在孙山的后面，委婉说出同乡没有考中的意思。后来，人们用“名落孙山”来表示参加考试没有被录取，榜上无名。
天花乱坠
As If It Were Raining Flowers
南北朝梁武帝的时候，有一个名叫云光的法师，讲经讲得很好。传说他有一次登坛讲经，感动了天上的花神。花神把天上的花纷纷降落下来，洒遍了大地。
In the Southern and Northern Dynasty (420-589), in the reign of King Wu of Liang, there was a monk called Master Yun Guang who was a very accomplished preacher. Once he explained the sutra so profoundly and subtly that the God of Flowers was moved and sent divine flowers down to Earth. Soon the land was covered with flowers.
“天花乱坠”这个成语后来比喻说话有声有色，非常动听（多指夸大的或不切实际的讲话）。
This idiom was later used metaphorically to describe talking in a vivid and eloquent way (mostly in an exaggerated and imparctical manner).