Idiom: 好整以暇 (hǎo zhěng yǐ xiá)
Literal Meaning: “Well-prepared yet leisurely.”
Explanation: 好整以暇 (hǎo zhěng yǐ xiá) means to remain composed and unhurried even in a situation that requires meticulous preparation or effort. It reflects confidence and calmness in handling tasks.
Chinese Idiom Stories
The idiom 好整以暇 originates from the ancient Chinese military text Records of the Grand Historian (史記). It describes a commander who maintained calmness and order while preparing troops for battle, ensuring readiness without panic or haste.
The phrase emphasizes the ability to stay composed under pressure, focusing on preparation and strategy without appearing rushed or disorganized. It is often used to commend individuals who handle tasks with both precision and grace, even in stressful or demanding situations.
Idiom Example Sentences
- 面對繁忙的考試週，她總是好整以暇地準備，從不慌張。
- During the busy exam week, she always prepared with composure and never panicked.
- Miàn duì fánmáng de kǎoshì zhōu, tā zǒng shì hào zhěng yǐ xiá de zhǔnbèi, cóng bù huāngzhāng.
- 將軍面對敵軍壓境，依然好整以暇地布置防禦。
- The general remained composed and calmly organized the defense despite the enemy’s advance.
- Jiāngjūn miàn duì díjūn yā jìng, yīrán hào zhěng yǐ xiá de bùzhì fángyù.
Practice Exercise
- What does 好整以暇 mean, and when might someone exhibit this behavior?
- How can you apply the quality of 好整以暇 in your daily life?
- Write a sentence using 好整以暇 to describe someone you admire and why.
Multiple Choice Questions
Which person best represents the idiom 好整以暇?
A) Someone rushing to finish a project last minute.
B) A student calmly organizing notes before an exam.
C) A chef frantically cooking without a plan.
D) A runner losing focus before the race.
(Answer: B)
