不耻下问 bùchǐ-xiàwèn not feel ashamed to ask and learn from one's subordinates
How to remember 不耻下问: 不 not + 耻 shame + 下 down + 问 ask = not feel ashamed to ask and learn from one's subordinates.
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How it is used
- To not be ashamed to ask those below you in rank or knowledge - 他身居高位却不耻下问 (tā shēnjū gāowèi què bùchǐ-xiàwèn) despite his high position he isn't above asking juniors.
- A praise term for humility in learning; the 下 means asking subordinates/inferiors, so don't use it for asking an expert (that's not the point).
- Formal, classical register, common in essays and speeches about attitude toward learning.