Idiom: 頤指氣使 (yí zhǐ qì shǐ)
Literal Meaning: “Commanding with a nod of the chin and using an arrogant tone.”
Explanation: This idiom refers to someone who gives orders in an arrogant and overbearing manner, acting as if others must obey them without question.
Chinese Idiom Stories
In ancient times, a powerful nobleman would give orders by simply nodding his chin or using an arrogant gesture. He barely spoke, yet his servants would rush to carry out his commands. This became a symbol of arrogance and haughty behavior.
The idiom “頤指氣使” describes someone who acts with a sense of superiority, ordering others around without showing respect or courtesy.
This idiom is often used to criticize people who believe they are above others and demand obedience without offering any gratitude or kindness in return.
Idiom Example Sentences
他總是對同事頤指氣使，讓我們非常不滿。
Tā zǒng shì duì tóngshì yízhǐqìshǐ, ràng wǒmen fēicháng bùmǎn.
He always treats his colleagues with arrogance, which makes us very unhappy.
Practice Exercise
1. Short Answer:
Describe a situation where someone might act in a “頤指氣使 (yí zhǐ qì shǐ)” manner.
2. Sentence Creation:
Use “頤指氣使 (yí zhǐ qì shǐ)” to describe someone acting arrogantly in your own sentence.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. What does “頤指氣使” mean?
A. Being very polite while giving orders
B. Speaking softly with respect
C. Giving arrogant and commanding orders
D. Asking for help nicely
(Answer: C)
2. How can you use “頤指氣使” in a sentence?
A. She was very kind and helpful to her team.
B. He constantly looked down on others, issuing orders arrogantly—he was “頤指氣使.”
C. They always ask politely for help.
D. He never tells anyone what to do.
(Answer: B)
