Chinese Idiom 27

"早知今日，何必当初" (zǎo zhī jīnrì, hébì dāngchū) is a Chinese idiom that translates to "if I had known today, why would I have acted then?" in English. It is used to express regret or hindsight about past actions or decisions.

In this idiom, "早知今日" (zǎo zhī jīnrì) means "if I had known today," and "何必当初" (Hébì dāngchū) means "why would I have acted then?" Together, they convey the idea that if one had been aware of the consequences or outcomes in the present, they would have made different choices or decisions in the past.

"早知今日，何必当初" is often used to reflect on past mistakes or missed opportunities, expressing a sense of regret or frustration about not having acted differently when there was still a chance to do so. It serves as a reminder to consider the potential consequences of one's actions and to make decisions thoughtfully and carefully.

Overall, this idiom highlights the importance of learning from past experiences and making informed choices to avoid future regrets. It encourages individuals to take a proactive approach to decision-making and to consider the long-term implications of their actions.