"Yi Bi Gou Xiao" (write off at one stroke) literally means to cross out an account or record with a single stroke, and by extension, it refers to canceling all past matters, grievances, debts, and so on, with no further reckoning or pursuit. This idiom originates from the Song Dynasty Buddhist Zen text "Wudeng Huiyuan," originally referring to letting go of all attachments in spiritual practice, and later came into widespread secular use. It carries an emotional tone of resoluteness and decisiveness, emphasizing a thorough settlement with no loose ends. It is mostly used in scenarios involving interpersonal conflicts, economic disputes, or long-standing historical issues, indicating that both parties agree to stop entanglement. It should be noted that it is usually applied to matters that have already occurred and are difficult to reverse; its tone sometimes appears casual and understated, but behind it often requires a certain breadth of mind or decisiveness. Culturally, it embodies the Chinese philosophy of "harmony is precious" and "looking forward," and is also commonly used in the termination of legal, commercial, or romantic relationships.
📝 Example
1. Since he has sincerely apologized, we might as well write off all past grievances and start cooperating anew. (Meaning: to completely cancel past conflicts and no longer hold them against each other.)
2. The company decided to write off this bad debt entirely and stop pursuing it, so as to focus its energy on developing new business. (Meaning: to cancel the debt completely and no longer seek repayment.)