Meaning
This literary chengyu literally describes the sun approaching the western mountains at sunset. It's used metaphorically to describe someone or something that is nearing its end, in decline, or past its prime. The imagery evokes the final hours of daylight, symbolizing the twilight of life, power, or influence.
Usage
This is a formal, literary expression typically used in written Chinese or formal speech. It often describes elderly people approaching the end of life, declining dynasties or empires, or waning influence and power. The tone is solemn and poetic, not used in casual conversation.
Examples
- 01这个王朝已经日薄西山，很快就会被新势力取代。, .This dynasty is already in decline and will soon be replaced by new forces.
- 02他虽然日薄西山，但仍然关心国家大事。, .Although he is in his twilight years, he still cares about national affairs.
Characters
Antonyms
Origin
This chengyu originates from the ancient text 'Han Feizi' (韩非子). The character 薄 here means 'to approach' or 'to draw near,' an archaic usage. The phrase captures the visual image of the sun descending toward mountains in the west, a poetic metaphor for decline that has been used in Chinese literature for over two thousand years.