循序渐进

1. Basic Information

• Pinyin: xún xù jiàn jìn
• English Translation: To proceed step by step, to advance gradually, to progress steadily one step at a time
• Idiom Composition: 「循」（To follow, to proceed according to）＋「序」（Order, sequence, stage）＋「渐」（Gradually, progressively）＋「进」（To advance, to move forward）
• Meaning: To proceed in an orderly and gradual manner. It describes approaching a goal step by step steadily, rather than seeking immediate results by skipping stages.

2. Detailed Meaning and Nuances

「循序渐进」 contains the following nuances:

• Gradual progression: Expresses the idea that things should follow a proper order and stages, which should not be ignored.
• Steadiness: Emphasizes the importance of progressing steadily and reliably, one step at a time.
• Persistence: Suggests the importance of continuous effort and persistence from a long-term perspective.
• Planning: Means advancing according to a plan rather than rushing forward without preparation.

3. Usage

「循序渐进」 is mainly used in the following contexts:

• Learning and training: Used to describe the process of acquiring new knowledge or skills.
  • Example:「学习外语需要循序渐进，不能一蹴而就。」
    （Learning a foreign language requires progressing step by step; it cannot be achieved all at once.）
• Work and project progress: Describes advancing through complex tasks in stages.
  • Example:「这个项目很大，我们需要循序渐进地完成。」
    （This project is large, so we need to complete it step by step.）
• Problem solving: Refers to the process of solving difficult problems one by one.
  • Example:「解决这个问题需要循序渐进，不能急于求成。」
    （Solving this problem requires steady progress step by step; one should not rush for quick results.）

Additional Examples:

1. 教育孩子要循序渐进，不能拔苗助长。
   （Educating children should be done step by step, without forcing premature growth.）
2. 他在工作中总是循序渐进，从不急躁。
   （He always works steadily and patiently, never rushing.）
3. 我们的教学计划是循序渐进的，确保学生能够逐步掌握知识。
   （Our teaching plan is gradual, ensuring students can master knowledge step by step.）
4. 他对待工作的态度非常认真，总是循序渐进地完成任务。
   （He has a very serious attitude towards work and always completes tasks steadily.）
5. 改革需要循序渐进，不能一蹴而就。
   （Reform needs to proceed gradually; it cannot be accomplished overnight.）

4. Cultural Background and Notes

• Traditional Chinese values: '循序渐进' reflects traditional Chinese values of steadiness and persistence. Historically, it has been believed that learning and self-cultivation cannot be achieved overnight but require daily accumulation.
• The philosophy of 'Zhongyong' (Doctrine of the Mean): This idiom is related to the concept of 'Zhongyong', which emphasizes avoiding extremes and maintaining balance while progressing. '循序渐进' embodies this spirit of balanced and gradual advancement.

5. Similar and Opposite Idioms

• Similar Idioms:
  • 按部就班 (àn bù jiù bān): To proceed according to rules and procedures.
  • 稳扎稳打 (wěn zhā wěn dǎ): To advance steadily and firmly, step by step.
• Opposite Idioms:
  • 急功近利 (jí gōng jìn lì): Seeking quick success and immediate benefits impatiently.
  • 一蹴而就 (yí cù ér jiù): To accomplish something in one step; to achieve easily.

6. Summary

'循序渐进' is an important Chinese idiom used in various contexts such as learning, work, and problem-solving. It emphasizes not just moving slowly, but advancing step by step in proper order and stages, steadily approaching the goal. Understanding this idiom, which is rooted in traditional Chinese values and the philosophy of balance, can enhance your Chinese language skills and deepen your appreciation of Chinese culture.