This saying advises that even in heated arguments, one should avoid attacking a person's most sensitive flaws or past mistakes. It teaches that there are boundaries in conflict, and crossing them can cause irreparable damage to relationships.
In Chinese culture, 'face' (面子) is extremely important, and exposing someone's weaknesses in public or in anger is seen as a severe violation of social etiquette. The saying reflects a deep respect for personal dignity even in conflict.
This saying reinforces the social rule of preserving face for others, even during disputes. It signals that maintaining harmony and long-term relationships is more important than winning an argument, and that cruelty in speech is a character flaw.
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