胸有成竹
xiōng yǒu chéng zhú
Full confidence from preparation
Possessing a clear plan and full confidence before undertaking a task. It describes someone who has already thought through all the details and is certain of success.
What does 胸有成竹 (xiōng yǒu chéng zhú) mean?
胸有成竹 (xiōng yǒu chéng zhú) means "full confidence from preparation" in English. Word for word, it breaks down as "have fully formed bamboo in one's chest."
Character by character
- 胸 xiōng chest
- 有 yǒu have
- 成 chéng formed
- 竹 zhú bamboo
When to use it
Applies to situations where someone is well-prepared and has a complete understanding of how to achieve their goal. It conveys a sense of calm assurance and readiness.
Example
这次考试，我胸有成竹，一定能取得好成绩。
Zhècì kǎoshì, wǒ xiōng yǒu chéng zhú, yídìng néng qǔdé hǎo chéngjì.
I'm completely confident about this exam; I'm sure I'll get a good score.
Pro tip: The 'formed bamboo' imagery suggests having a complete mental blueprint or strategy already in mind, much like an artist who envisions the finished painting before even starting.
Related idioms
小心翼翼 · Meticulous carefulness兴高采烈 · Great joy and excitement一臂之力 · A helping hand
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