The literal meaning of "一蹴而就" is "to succeed with a single step," where "蹴" means to step or tread, and "就" means to complete or succeed. This idiom is often used to describe something that is extremely easy and can be accomplished in one go. It is mostly used in negative sentences to emphasize that something is not simple or quick and requires long-term effort and accumulation. It originates from Zhu Xi's "Zhuzi Yulei" of the Song Dynasty, with the original text being "一蹴而就，只是易事" (to succeed with a single step is merely an easy matter). Later, it was often used to criticize impetuousness and rashness or a mindset that underestimates difficulties. In terms of cultural background, it reflects the admiration in traditional Chinese culture for gradual progress and the accumulation of substantial strength, while opposing the pursuit of quick success and instant benefits. In terms of emotional coloring, it often carries a derogatory or admonitory tone, reminding people not to fantasize about achieving success without effort. It is mostly used in scenarios involving learning, scientific research, careers, and other fields that require long-term persistence, such as "Academic research cannot be accomplished overnight."
📝 Example
Learning a foreign language requires steady, cumulative effort; it cannot be achieved overnight. (Meaning: to succeed all at once, describing something as easy to accomplish.)
Scientific research and innovation often require repeated experimentation; they are by no means matters that can be accomplished overnight. (Meaning: to be completed in a single step, emphasizing that one must not rush for quick results.)