Home / Chinese Wisdom Cards / 小心驶得万年船
Caution Easy

小心驶得万年船

xiǎo xīn shǐ dé wàn nián chuán
Caution can sail the ship for ten thousand years.

Careful steer get ten-thousand year boat.

This means that being cautious and prudent in all matters en...

This means that being cautious and prudent in all matters ensures long-term safety and stability. It advises against recklessness and emphasizes the value of careful planning and risk avoidance.

Nautical imagery is common in Chinese coastal regions, where sailing represents life's journey. The proverb reflects a deep cultural preference for stability and risk aversion.

Someone might say this when a friend is about to make a hasty investment or take an unnecessary risk, urging them to think twice.

Chinese culture historically values survival and continuity over adventure. This saying functions as a gentle reminder that one mistake can undo years of progress, so vigilance is a form of respect for one's own efforts.

#caution #wisdom #hard-times

Discover More Chinese Sayings

Draw random cards from hundreds of real Chinese folk sayings and proverbs. Each flip reveals what Chinese people actually mean.

🎴 Play Chinese Wisdom Cards