一举一动
yī jǔ yī dòng
Every move and action · trad. 一舉一動
Refers to every single action or movement a person makes. It often implies that someone's behavior is being observed or has significant implications for others.
What does 一举一动 (yī jǔ yī dòng) mean?
一举一动 (yī jǔ yī dòng) means "every move and action" in English. Word for word, it breaks down as "one lift, one move."
Character by character
- 一 yī one
- 举 jǔ lift
- 一 yī one
- 动 dòng move
When to use it
Used when emphasizing the importance of a person's complete range of actions, especially when they are under scrutiny or their behavior affects others. It can convey a sense of caution or responsibility.
Example
要注意你的一举一动。
Yào zhùyì nǐ de yī jǔ yī dòng.
You must pay attention to your every move and action.
Pro tip: Focuses on the entirety of someone's behavior, encompassing all their actions and gestures, rather than just a particular incident or type of action.
Related idioms
胸有成竹 · Full confidence from preparation一臂之力 · A helping hand一口咬定 · Firm assertion
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