Social Rules
Easy
以眼还眼
yǐ yǎn huán yǎn
Natural meaning
An eye for an eye.
Literal translation
With eye return eye.
What it means
This is the same principle as '以牙还牙'—retaliation in kind. It emphasizes that punishment should match the offense.
Cultural context
This phrase is ancient, appearing in the Code of Hammurabi and the Bible. In Chinese, it's used interchangeably with '以牙还牙' but focuses on the visual metaphor of an eye.
When Chinese people say this
Someone might say this in a heated argument about justice, or when describing a feud where each side keeps retaliating.
Why Chinese people say this
It provides a clear, visceral image of fairness through symmetry. The eye is more emotionally charged than a tooth, making the saying more intense.
💬 Real-life example
A:They cheated us in the deal. What should we do?
B:We need to respond in kind. 以眼还眼.
C:Make sure our response is justified and not excessive.
Tone
🟢 Just · Retaliatory
⚠️ Don't take it literally
Do not interpret it as literally taking eyes; it symbolizes proportional revenge.
📖 Story example
In the village feud, each family believed in 以眼还眼, leading to a cycle of retaliation. Eventually, an elder advised them to break the chain for peace.
❓ Frequently asked questions
What does 以眼还眼 mean in English?
It means 'An eye for an eye,' stressing that punishment should be equivalent to the crime committed.
When do Chinese people say 以眼还眼?
Traditionally, it's said in discussions of justice or revenge, reflecting a belief in balanced retribution.
Is 以眼还眼 still used today?
Yes, it's commonly referenced in ethical debates and personal conflicts to argue for fairness in response.
What is the English equivalent of 以眼还眼?
The English equivalent is 'An eye for an eye,' identical in meaning and usage.
💕 Related Chinese sayings