老骥伏枥

Old steed in the stable, yet with soaring ambitions.

《龟虽寿》

"An old steed in the stable still aspires to gallop a thousand li" comes from Cao Cao's *The Turtle Though Long-Lived* of the Wei Dynasty in the Three Kingdoms period: "An old steed in the stable still aspires to gallop a thousand li; a noble-hearted man in his twilight years never ceases to strive." Literally, it means that although an old thousand-li horse is stabled by the manger, its heart still longs to gallop a thousand li. Its deeper meaning is a metaphor for people with aspirations who, though advanced in years, have not diminished in ambition and still cherish lofty goals. It is mostly used to praise older people for their vigor in old age and enterprising spirit, or to encourage oneself by expressing a willingness to strive despite growing older. In terms of cultural background, this idiom embodies the traditional Chinese virtues of unremitting self-improvement and remaining productive in old age. Its emotional tone is commendatory, full of admiration and inspiration. It is often used together with "aspires to gallop a thousand li," emphasizing that age is not a barrier and that ambition and passion are what matter most. In modern times, it is often used to describe people who, after retirement, continue to contribute their remaining energy and pursue their dreams.

1. After retirement, Professor Wang still persists in scientific research—truly like an old steed in the stable still aspiring to gallop a thousand li. (A metaphor for retaining lofty ambitions in old age.) 2. Facing competition from young people, he refuses to yield, like an old steed in the stable still aspiring to gallop a thousand li, continuing to strive in the business world. (Describing someone who, though advanced in years, still possesses an enterprising spirit.)