This saying criticizes someone who thinks they are clever but actually makes foolish or counterproductive decisions. It implies arrogance and a lack of self-awareness.
In Chinese culture, humility is prized, and overt displays of cleverness that backfire are seen as a character flaw.
Chinese people use this saying to caution against overconfidence and to remind others that true wisdom includes knowing one's limits, reflecting a cultural distrust of showy intelligence.
Draw random cards from hundreds of real Chinese folk sayings and proverbs. Each flip reveals what Chinese people actually mean.
🎴 Play Chinese Wisdom Cards