"An Bu Dang Che" literally means replacing riding in a carriage with a leisurely walk. This idiom comes from the "Zhan Guo Ce: Qi Ce IV," which tells the story of King Xuan of Qi inviting Yan Chu to take office, but Yan Chu politely declined, saying he would rather "eat late as if eating meat, and walk leisurely as if riding in a carriage" — that is, treating a slow walk as riding in a carriage, reflecting an attitude of being content with poverty and devoted to the Way, without craving glory and wealth. In its deeper meaning, it emphasizes treating life with a calm and unhurried mindset, not pursuing material enjoyment, but focusing on inner peace and freedom. In terms of usage, it is mostly used to describe someone walking unhurriedly and contentedly, or as a metaphor for being willing to live simply and not coveting wealth and honor. In cultural background, it reflects the reclusive thought of ancient Chinese scholars who revered nature and disdained powerful nobles. Its emotional tone is mostly positive, carrying a sense of appreciation, contentment, or consolation. In modern times, it is also often used to encourage people to slow down and enjoy the health and tranquility brought by walking.
📝 Example
1. He walks at a leisurely pace instead of riding every day, going from home to the park, which both exercises his body and lets him enjoy the scenery along the way. (Meaning: to walk calmly instead of taking a vehicle)
2. In this fast-paced era, we might as well walk at a leisurely pace instead of rushing to ride, giving ourselves some time to slow down. (Meaning: to replace hurried riding with unhurried walking, as a metaphor for slowing down the pace of life)