独当一面

Pinyin:dú dāng yī miàn

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📖 Meaning

To shoulder the responsibility alone

📜 Origin

《史记》

💡 Detailed Explanation

"Capable of assuming sole responsibility for a task" literally means independently taking on a task or responsibility in one area, describing a person of outstanding ability who can independently handle work or a situation in a certain field without the assistance of others. This idiom originates from the Records of the Grand Historian: The Hereditary House of the Marquis of Liu, where Zhang Liang evaluated Han Xin as "capable of assuming sole responsibility for a task," referring to his ability to independently command an army in one region. Its deeper meaning emphasizes personal independence, a sense of responsibility, and comprehensive ability. It is commonly used in workplace, military, and management contexts to express trust in and recognition of someone's abilities. It is mostly used when assigning important tasks or praising others, such as "He is experienced and can assume sole responsibility for a task." In terms of cultural background, it reflects the high regard in traditional Chinese culture for the spirit of taking responsibility and independent character. Its emotional tone is positive, carrying a sense of appreciation and trust, though it sometimes also implies the meaning of fighting alone.

📝 Example

1. After several years of training, he can now take charge on his own and is responsible for the operation of the entire project. (Referring to independently undertaking and being competent for an important task in a certain area) 2. The company urgently needs a regional manager who can take charge on his own to explore the southern market. (Referring to being able to independently take charge of the work in a region)