"Chicken Crows, Dogs Steal" comes from the "Biography of Lord Mengchang" in the Records of the Grand Historian. It tells the story of Lord Mengchang during the Warring States period, who relied on his retainers—one imitating a rooster's crow and another acting like a dog to steal—to help him escape from the State of Qin. Originally, it referred to insignificant skills or actions, but later it mostly came to mean despicable and improper petty tricks, and also refers to people who possess such skills. This idiom carries a derogatory meaning and is often used to describe underhanded means or behavior. Its usage scenarios are mostly related to opportunism and unorthodox methods. In terms of cultural background, it reflects the ancient practice of keeping retainers and the varying evaluations of "scholars," and it also reminds people not to underestimate seemingly minor skills, though it places greater emphasis on morality and legitimacy. In emotional tone, it carries a sense of contempt and sarcasm, and is sometimes used for self-deprecation or teasing.
📝 Example
1. He rose to a high position through petty, underhanded tricks, but ultimately fell from grace when his scandal was exposed. (Referring to despicable, improper little tricks)
2. Don't underestimate these petty skills; they might come in handy at a critical moment. (Referring to trivial skills or actions)