The idiom "ren lao ren yuan" (bearing hardship without complaint) originates from The Analects of Confucius. The original text reads "ren lao ren yuan," meaning to bear hardships without shirking or complaining. In this idiom, "ren" means to undertake or endure; "lao" refers to toil and hardship; and "yuan" means complaint or resentment. Taken as a whole, it describes a person who can shoulder heavy work and hardship while remaining free of complaints or grievances. This idiom is typically used to describe someone with a proper work attitude who is diligent and conscientious, does not fuss over personal gains and losses, and possesses a strong sense of responsibility and dedication. In terms of emotional coloring, it carries a distinctly positive connotation and is often used to praise those who contribute quietly without seeking reward. It is commonly used in scenarios describing work, study, or family life, where someone bears heavy responsibilities over the long term without a word of complaint. In terms of cultural background, it embodies the Confucian spirit of "bending one's back to the task until one's dying day," emphasizing selfless dedication to the collective or to others. It is worth noting that this idiom emphasizes an active, willing acceptance of hardship rather than passive endurance.
📝 Example
1. Teacher Zhang worked tirelessly and without complaint in his teaching position for thirty years, and was deeply loved by his students.
2. She takes care of her sick mother every day while also juggling work, yet she always bears the burden without complaint and never pours out her troubles to others.