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得意莫忘形

dé yì mò wàng xíng
Don't get carried away by success.

When proud, do not forget form.

This is a shorter, direct warning against arrogance and over...

This is a shorter, direct warning against arrogance and overconfidence when experiencing success or good fortune. It advises maintaining humility and self-awareness.

This phrase is a condensed version of the longer proverb, often used as a simple reminder in daily life. It reflects the Chinese cultural emphasis on modesty as a virtue.

Someone might say this to a friend who just won a lottery and is already planning to quit their job and spend recklessly.

This saying serves as a quick check on ego. It signals that success can blind a person to their own flaws, and that staying grounded is essential for long-term stability and respect.

#humility #caution #human-nature

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