Idioms and allusions in Putonghua

Idiom allusions in Mandarin are as follows:

First of all, cut to the chase

The idiom "get to the point" comes from Fei Zhuan, which means to get to the point. It is a metaphor to talk or write an article directly on the subject without beating around the bush. This idiom emphasizes the importance of direct expression, without dragging its feet or beating around the bush. When writing, we should be clear about the theme and get to the point, so that the audience or readers can quickly understand our intentions and opinions.

"Cut to the chase" is an idiom of China, which means to speak directly and not beat around the bush. This idiom originated from the experience of ancient tourists climbing mountains. When they reached the top of the mountain, there was only a vast mountain range and countless peaks in front of them, without any unnecessary scenery or obstacles, just like getting straight to the point.

Second, gild the lily.

The idiom "painting a snake to add feet" comes from Seven Strategies II of the Warring States policy, which means adding feet to a snake when painting it. It is harmful, unrealistic and unnecessary to do superfluous things. This idiom tells us not to do things too complicated, not to do unnecessary things, and to accomplish tasks simply and clearly.

"gild the lily" is an idiom of China, which means to do something superfluous, but it is a bad thing. This idiom comes from an old story about a man who drew a foot on a snake to show his skills. However, this makes the snake lose its original beauty and characteristics and become extremely ugly.

Third, cover my ears and steal the clock.

The idiom "Stealing the bell from the ear" comes from Lu Chunqiu Self-knowledge, which means covering your ears and thinking that others can't hear you. Metaphor self-deception, close your eyes. This idiom emphasizes self-deception, don't deceive yourself, and don't think that others don't know what you don't know. We should keep a clear head, face the reality and deal with problems realistically.

"Stealing the clock" is China's fable, which means to deceive oneself or others, or to act blindly regardless of the actual situation. The story is about a stupid thief who covered his ears with his hand to avoid being heard when stealing his neighbor's clock. But he ignored that the bell was coming from the outside, and covering his ears could not stop others from hearing it.