Chinese Idiom 19

"做一天和尚撞一天钟" (zuò yītiān héshang zhuàng yītiān zhōng) is a Chinese idiom that translates to "act as a monk for a day, ring the bell for a day" in English. It is used to describe a situation where someone adopts a role or behavior temporarily, without a sincere or long-term commitment.

In this idiom, "做一天和尚" (zuò yītiān héshang) means "act as a monk for a day," and "撞一天钟" (zhuàng yītiān zhōng) means "ring the bell for a day." Together, they convey the idea of someone temporarily assuming the role of a monk, such as by ringing the bell in a monastery, without having the genuine dedication or commitment required for the role.

"做一天和尚撞一天钟" is often used to criticize or mock someone who pretends to be something they are not, or who engages in a task or behavior superficially and temporarily, without true sincerity or dedication.

Overall, this idiom emphasizes the importance of sincerity and genuine commitment in one's actions or roles, rather than merely going through the motions temporarily.