Caution Interesting

枪打出头鸟，刀砍地头蛇

qiāng dǎ chū tóu niǎo, dāo kǎn dì tóu shé

The gun shoots the leading bird; the knife cuts the local snake.

Literal translation

The gun hits the bird that sticks out; the knife chops the snake that rules the local turf.

What it means

This extended version warns that not only do outspoken leade...

This extended version warns that not only do outspoken leaders get attacked, but also local powerholders or bullies will eventually face consequences. It cautions against both being too visible and being too domineering.

Cultural context

Combines two folk metaphors: the 'leading bird' for public prominence and the 'local snake' for petty tyrants or entrenched local interests. It reflects a cynical view of power dynamics.

When Chinese people say this

Someone might say this when discussing a local official or boss who abuses power, predicting their downfall, or when warning a friend not to become either too famous or too controlling.

Why Chinese people say this

It serves as a double warning: avoid the spotlight and avoid exploiting local influence. The saying encapsulates a fatalistic belief that both fame and arrogance invite retribution.

#caution #power #social-rules

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