溫故知新 Old wisdom, today’s insight — ONGO
지피지기 知彼知己
To know the opponent and to know oneself; it signifies that true victory comes from a deep understanding of both external challenges and internal capabilities.
지피지기 (知彼知己) means "To know the opponent and to know oneself; it signifies that true victory comes from a deep understanding of both external challenges and internal capabilities.". This idiom originates from the 'Planning an Attack' chapter of 'The Art of War,' written by the lege
1 Meaning
지피지기 (知彼知己) means “To know the opponent and to know oneself; it signifies that true victory comes from a deep understanding of both external challenges and internal capabilities.”.
Jipi-jigi (知彼知己) suggests that if you understand both your opponent and yourself, you will never be in peril, even in a hundred battles. It emphasizes the importance of accurately assessing your own strengths and weaknesses alongside external circumstances to achieve success.
2 Examples
An employee preparing for a high-stakes project presentation
They identify the weaknesses in their own speaking style while simultaneously researching and listing potential questions the audience might ask.
A job seeker preparing for an interview at a dream company
They analyze the company's core values and specifically align their past experiences and strengths to match those values in their answers.
A couple experiencing recurring conflicts in their relationship
They analyze each other's communication styles and acknowledge their own defensive triggers before attempting to resolve the issue.
A sports team facing a highly competitive rival
The coach analyzes the opponent's recent game footage while also carefully monitoring their own players' physical conditions and tactical limits.
Which situation fits this idiom?
Pick the everyday scene where “지피지기” fits best.
3 Origin
4 Key Lessons
Self-Objectification: Success begins with a cold, honest assessment of your own emotions and capabilities.
Thorough Analysis: Wisdom lies in understanding the intentions and circumstances of others rather than simply judging them.
Grounded Confidence: True composure and confidence arise only when you have a clear-eyed view of both the challenge and your own readiness.
5 English Expression
English Vocabulary
weak spot
약점
"Everyone has a weak spot that they try to hide."
read the room
분위기를 파악하다
"You need to read the room before making a joke."
chaos
혼돈, 무질서
"She stayed calm even in the middle of the chaos."
set the tone
분위기를 주도하다
"The manager's positive attitude set the tone for the meeting."
6 Learn with Music
Related Idioms
지피지기
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