"Kuafu Chasing the Sun" comes from the Classic of Mountains and Seas: The Classic of Regions Beyond the North Sea. It tells the story of the giant Kuafu, who chased the sun and eventually died of thirst along the way, with his walking stick transforming into a peach grove. The idiom has two layers of meaning: first, a derogatory sense, metaphorically describing someone who overestimates their own abilities and vainly attempts things beyond their capacity, often carrying irony or regret; second, a commendatory sense, metaphorically describing the pursuit of great ideals, fearing no hardship, persevering unremittingly, and even being willing to sacrifice. In terms of cultural background, it reflects the ancient ancestors' curiosity about and desire to conquer nature, and also symbolizes the Chinese nation's spirit of courageous exploration and unyielding perseverance. It is used in a wide range of scenarios, and can be used to criticize reckless behavior as well as to praise persistent pursuit. Its emotional coloring varies with context: in a derogatory sense, it carries mockery and warning; in a commendatory sense, it carries tragic heroism and admiration. Its deeper meaning reminds people: one should not only look up at the stars but also keep one's feet on the ground, act according to one's ability, and yet also have the courage to pursue dreams.
📝 Example
1. He only had a middle school education, yet he wanted to crack a world-class math problem—it was simply like Kuafu chasing the sun, overestimating himself. (A metaphor for overestimating one's abilities and attempting something beyond one's capacity.)
2. The research team worked on new energy for ten years as if it were a single day. Though they suffered repeated failures, they persisted like Kuafu chasing the sun, and finally achieved a breakthrough. (A metaphor for pursuing ideals with unremitting perseverance.)