Character
Interesting
受人之托，忠人之事
shòu rén zhī tuō, zhōng rén zhī shì
Natural meaning
When entrusted by someone, be faithful to the task.
Literal translation
Receive a person's entrustment, be loyal to that person's affair.
What it means
If someone asks you to do something, you must carry it out with full commitment and integrity. Do not half-do it or betray the trust placed in you.
Cultural context
This saying reflects the Confucian virtue of xin (trustworthiness) and the importance of honoring one's word. It applies to everything from a small favor to a professional commission.
When Chinese people say this
Someone might say this when accepting a responsibility from a friend, or when criticizing someone who failed to deliver on a promise they had agreed to.
Why Chinese people say this
Trust is a crucial social currency in Chinese culture. This saying reinforces the moral weight of a promise — it signals that you are reliable and that your word is your bond, which earns you respect and future opportunities.
💬 Real-life example
A:I promised to take care of his dog while he's away, but it's a lot of work.
B:You agreed to it, so you have to do it well. 受人之托，忠人之事.
C:Right. It's about trust and integrity.
⚠️ Don't take it literally
It does not refer only to formal entrustments; it applies to any promise or responsibility taken on.
📖 Story example
When Li asked her colleague to pass on an important document to the boss, she emphasized, '受人之托，忠人之事.' The colleague took the task seriously, ensuring it was delivered promptly and securely, upholding the trust placed in him.
❓ Frequently asked questions
What does 受人之托，忠人之事 mean in English?
It means 'When entrusted by someone, be faithful to the task,' emphasizing reliability and integrity in fulfilling obligations.
When do Chinese people say 受人之托，忠人之事?
Traditionally, it is said when accepting a responsibility or criticizing someone for failing to deliver on a promise.
Is this saying about loyalty in friendships?
It reflects the importance of trustworthiness in all relationships, encouraging people to honor commitments whether in personal or professional settings.
What is the English equivalent of 受人之托，忠人之事?
Similar English phrases include 'my word is my bond' or 'honor your commitments,' though they lack the specific cultural nuance of entrustment.
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