Definition
任人唯亲 is a four-character idiom (成语) meaning 'to appoint people based on personal connections rather than merit'. It describes a practice of cronyism or nepotism, often used in political or workplace contexts to criticize unfair hiring or promotion. The structure is 任 (appoint) + 人 (people) + 唯 (only) + 亲 (close/relatives), so the literal sense is 'only appoint those close to you'. It contrasts with 任人唯贤 (appoint by merit).
f.e.
to practice cronyism or nepotism in appointments
Examples
- 任人唯亲，。Zhè jiā gōngsī yīnwèi rèn rén wéi qīn, hěnduō yǒu nénglì de yuángōng dōu líkāi le.Because this company practices cronyism, many capable employees have left.
- 任人唯亲。rèn rén wéi qīn de zuòfǎ huì yánzhòng yǐngxiǎng zǔzhī de xiàolǜ.The practice of cronyism can seriously affect an organization's efficiency.
- 任人唯亲，。Lǐngdǎo yīngdāng bìmiǎn rèn rén wéi qīn, jiānchí gōngpíng xuǎnbá réncái.Leaders should avoid cronyism and insist on fair selection of talent.
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