Catch Phrase | 下马威(xiàmǎwēi)

Writer: Debra Li  | Editor: Stephanie Yang  | From:  | Updated: 2019-07-01

Meaning:

“下马” means “dismounting one’s horse,” and “威” means “force, power.” This Chinese term dated back to ancient times when officials used horses as their primary means of transport. When they were appointed to a new position and met by welcoming subordinates, the officials would normally show the subordinates their strong and harsh side, so that it would be easy to get their orders implemented in the future. As a metaphor, this term is often used today in the context of confrontations between opponents, as one side would like to flex their muscle and give the other side a head-on blow at the first encounter.

Example:

A: 你们新来的经理怎么样?

Nǐmen xīnlái de jīnglǐ zěnmeyàng?

How is your new manager?

B: 似乎很厉害,他一上任就来了一个下马威,开除了几个懒散的员工。

Sìhū hěn lìhài,tā yī shàngrèn jiù lái le yīgè xiàmǎwēi, kāichú le jǐgè lǎnsǎn de yuángōng。

He seems to be a no-nonsense guy. As soon as he assumed office, he showed his ruthlessness by firing several slackers.