Chinese Idiom Stories: 防微杜漸 (Fáng wēi dù jiàn)

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Idiom: 防微杜漸 (Fáng wēi dù jiàn)

Explanation: 防微杜漸 (fáng wēi dù jiàn) means “to nip problems in the bud.” This idiom underscores the importance of addressing minor issues early on before they have the chance to grow into major problems. It teaches the value of vigilance and taking preventive action to avoid future troubles.

Chinese Idiom Stories

The idiom “防微杜漸” originated from ancient Chinese wisdom, emphasizing that small, seemingly harmless problems should be addressed promptly.

The story tells of a wise official who noticed small cracks in a city wall. Instead of ignoring them, he ordered immediate repairs, preventing a potential collapse in the future. This story serves as a reminder that early intervention can prevent greater issues from arising.

In modern times, “防微杜漸” encourages us to address small problems proactively, preventing them from escalating into larger difficulties.

Idiom Example Sentences

在工作中，要防微杜漸，避免小錯誤變成大問題。
- Zài gōngzuò zhōng, yào fáng wēi dù jiàn, bìmiǎn xiǎo cuòwù biàn chéng dà wèntí.
- At work, we should nip problems in the bud to prevent small errors from turning into big issues.
父母教育孩子時應該防微杜漸，讓他們從小養成良好的習慣。
- Fùmǔ jiàoyù háizi shí yīnggāi fáng wēi dù jiàn, ràng tāmen cóng xiǎo yǎngchéng liánghǎo de xíguàn.
- Parents should nip problems in the bud when raising children, helping them develop good habits from a young age.

Practice Exercise

你認為為什麼要防微杜漸？舉例說明。
- Nǐ rènwéi wèishéme yào fáng wēi dù jiàn? Jǔlì shuōmíng.
- Why do you think it’s important to nip problems in the bud? Give an example.
  - Answer: Responses may vary, e.g., “To prevent bigger problems later.”