Definition
功成身退 is a four-character idiom (成语) from classical Chinese philosophy, especially associated with Laozi's Daodejing. It describes the ideal of a person who accomplishes great deeds and then withdraws from public life or power before overstaying their welcome — avoiding the arrogance and conflict that often follow success. In modern usage, it's used for retiring gracefully after a major achievement, whether in politics, business, or a career.
f.e.
to retire gracefully after achieving successto withdraw after winning merit
Examples
- 功成身退，。Xǔduō gǔdài míngchén dōu xuǎnzé gōng chéng shēn tuì, yǐ bǎoquán zìjǐ de míngshēng.Many famous ancient officials chose to retire after achieving success, in order to preserve their reputation.
- 功成身退，。Tā zài gōngsī shàngshì hòu gōng chéng shēn tuì, bǎ guǎnlǐ quán jiāo gěi le niánqīng rén.After the company went public, he retired gracefully and handed management over to the younger generation.
- 功成身退，。gōng chéng shēn tuì bùjǐn shì yì zhǒng zhìhuì, yě shì yì zhǒng rénshēng jìngjiè.Retiring after success is not only a form of wisdom but also a realm of life philosophy.
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