Definition
当机立断 means 'to decide promptly and resolutely' — it emphasizes making a swift, firm decision at a critical moment. It contrasts with 急中生智 (jí zhōng-shēng zhì), which focuses on producing a clever idea under pressure; 当机立断 is about the decision itself, not the ingenuity of the solution.
idiom
to decide promptly and resolutelyto act without hesitation at a crucial moment
Examples
- ，当机立断。Qíngkuàng jǐnjí, bìxū dāng jī-lì duàn.The situation is urgent—we must make a prompt decision.
- 当机立断，。Tā dāng jī-lì duàn, zhuāzhù le tóuzī de zuìjiā shíjī.He made an immediate decision and seized the best timing for investment.
- 当机立断，。Lǐngdǎo dāng jī-lì duàn de tiáozhěng le fāng'àn, bìmiǎn le gèng dà sǔnshī.The leader promptly adjusted the plan, averting greater losses.
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