引经据典

1. Basic Information

• Pinyin: yǐn jīng jù diǎn
• English Translation: To cite authoritative sources, to quote classics or ancient texts, to refer to historical precedents
• Idiom Composition: 「引」（To quote, to cite）＋「经」（Classics, scriptures）＋「据」（To base on, to rely on）＋「典」（Classical texts, authoritative books）
• Meaning: The act of citing words or examples from classics, ancient texts, or historical documents as evidence during discussions or arguments. It is often used to reinforce one's own opinion or to lend authority to it.

2. Detailed Meaning and Nuances

「引经据典」 contains the following nuances:

• Citation of authority: Classics and ancient texts have been regarded as authoritative over a long history, so quoting them adds weight and persuasiveness to one's argument.
• Demonstration of scholarship: Appropriately citing authoritative sources also demonstrates the speaker's or writer's depth of knowledge.
• Clarification of argument basis: By providing authoritative references, one clarifies the basis of their argument, helping the audience or readers understand better.
• Irony or criticism: Sometimes used ironically or critically towards those who rely excessively on citations.

3. Usage

「引经据典」 is mainly used in the following contexts:

• Debates and arguments: Citing authoritative sources as evidence when asserting one's opinion.
  • Example:「在辩论赛中，选手引经据典，引用历史名人的言论来支持自己的观点。」
    （In the debate competition, the contestant cited authoritative sources, quoting famous historical figures to support their viewpoint.）
• Academic writing: Citing prior research and authoritative literature in academic papers or reports.
  • Example:「在撰写论文时，他总是引经据典，以增强论点的权威性。」
    （When writing papers, he always cites authoritative sources to strengthen the credibility of his arguments.）
• Speeches and lectures: Effectively citing authoritative sources to make speeches more persuasive to the audience.
  • Example:「教授在讲解法律条文时，经常引经据典，让学生更好地理解法律的渊源。」
    （When explaining legal provisions, the professor often cites authoritative sources to help students better understand the origins of the law.）

Additional Examples:

1. 他说话总是引经据典，显得非常博学。
   （He always quotes authoritative sources when he speaks, making him appear very learned.）
2. 在讨论哲学问题时，她引经据典，引用了多位哲学家的观点。
   （When discussing philosophical issues, she cited authoritative sources, quoting the views of many philosophers.）
3. 这篇文章引经据典，论证充分，很有说服力。
   （This article cites authoritative sources, providing thorough arguments and is very persuasive.）
4. 他虽然喜欢引经据典，但有时也难免断章取义。
   （Although he likes to quote authoritative sources, sometimes he inevitably takes quotes out of context.）
5. 不要总是引经据典，也要结合实际情况进行分析。
   （Don't always rely on citing authoritative sources; it's also necessary to analyze in connection with the actual situation.）

4. Cultural Background and Notes

• In China, Confucian classics have long been highly valued and served as norms for scholarship and politics. Therefore, quoting classics and ancient texts has been used as a means to demonstrate authority and legitimacy. The idiom '引经据典' reflects this cultural background.
• While citing authoritative sources is important, it is also essential not to rely solely on them but to clearly present one's own opinions and analysis.
• When citing sources, it is crucial to understand the context correctly and use them appropriately. Quoting only parts out of context may lead to misunderstandings.

5. Similar and Opposite Idioms

• Similar Idioms:
  • 旁征博引 (páng zhēng bó yǐn): To extensively cite various sources to support an argument.
  • 引古喻今 (yǐn gǔ yù jīn): To explain present matters by referring to ancient events.
• Opposite Idioms:
  • 空口无凭 (kōng kǒu wú píng): Making claims without any evidence.

6. Summary

'引经据典' is an idiom symbolizing an intellectual practice cultivated through China's long history and culture. Beyond merely quoting ancient texts, it embodies respect for authority, demonstration of scholarship, and a commitment to logical thinking. Understanding and appropriately using this idiom is key to appreciating Chinese writing and conversation more deeply.