以身作则

1. Basic Information

• Pinyin: yǐ shēn zuò zé
• English Translation: To set an example by one's own conduct, to lead by example
• Idiom Composition: 「以」（By means of）＋「身」（Oneself）＋「作」（To act as, to be）＋「则」（Model, example）
• Meaning: To set an example through one's own actions, positively influencing those around. It especially refers to leaders or superiors who take the lead by acting as role models.

2. Detailed Meaning and Nuances

「以身作则」 contains the following nuances:

• Leading by action: Emphasizes setting an example through actual actions, not just words.
• Leadership: Refers to leaders or superiors taking the initiative to act correctly and guide others.
• Influence: One's actions are expected to positively influence and be emulated by those around them.
• Sense of responsibility: Implies a sense of responsibility and awareness for those in a position to set an example.

3. Usage

「以身作则」 is mainly used in the following contexts:

• Actions of leaders and mentors: Describes leaders of organizations or educators setting an example through their own actions.
  • Example:「作为校长，他以身作则，每天都是第一个到校，最后一个离开。」
    （As a principal, he leads by example, being the first to arrive at school and the last to leave every day.）
• Education by parents and elders: Refers to parents or elders setting a good example for children or subordinates.
  • Example:「在家庭中，父母以身作则，孩子自然会学习到良好的行为习惯。」
    （In the family, if parents lead by example, children will naturally learn good behavioral habits.）
• Social role model: Describes influential figures in society setting good examples and becoming role models for society as a whole.
  • Example:「在抗击疫情的前线，医护人员以身作则，不顾个人安危，为社会树立了榜样。」
    （On the front lines of the epidemic, medical personnel led by example, disregarding their personal safety and setting a role model for society.）

Additional Examples:

1. 领导应该以身作则，遵守规章制度，这样才能赢得员工的尊重。
   （Leaders should lead by example and abide by rules and regulations; only then can they earn the respect of their employees.）
2. 这位老师以身作则，鼓励学生勤奋学习，自己也不断进修提高。
   （This teacher leads by example, encouraging students to study diligently while continuously pursuing further studies and self-improvement.）
3. 他作为团队的领导，凡事都以身作则，带领大家一起克服困难。
   （As the team leader, he leads by example in everything, guiding everyone to overcome difficulties together.）
4. 作为一名党员，他时刻牢记自己的责任，以身作则，为群众服务。
   （As a party member, he always remembers his responsibilities, leads by example, and serves the masses.）
5. 在环保方面，她以身作则，坚持绿色出行，减少碳排放。
   （In terms of environmental protection, she leads by example, adhering to green travel and reducing carbon emissions.）

4. Cultural Background and Notes

• Influence of Confucianism: '以身作则' is deeply rooted in traditional Chinese Confucian thought. As the saying goes, 'Teaching by example is better than teaching by words,' Confucianism holds that leaders should guide people through their own actions.
• Significance in modern society: Even today, '以身作则' is recognized as an important principle of leadership and education. Its importance is emphasized in various contexts such as corporate management, school education, and family education.

5. Similar and Opposite Idioms

• Similar Idioms:
  • 率先垂范 (shuài xiān chuí fàn): To take the lead and set an example.
  • 身体力行 (shēn tǐ lì xíng): To practice what one preaches, to personally put into practice.
• Opposite Idioms:
  • 言行不一 (yán xíng bù yī): Words and deeds do not match.

6. Summary

'以身作则' is an idiom reflecting traditional Chinese values and remains significant in modern society. Leaders, mentors, parents, and elders, who are in positions to set examples, are expected to consistently strive to 'lead by example' and positively influence those around them through their actions. Understanding and practicing this idiom can contribute to building a better society.