Chinese Idiom 39

"舍本求末" (shě běn qiú mò) is a Chinese idiom that translates to "abandoning the root to pursue the tip" in English. It is used to criticize or caution against focusing on superficial or secondary matters while neglecting the fundamental or root causes of a problem.

In this idiom, "舍" (shě) means "to abandon" or "to give up," "本" (běn) means "root" or "essence," "求" (qiú) means "to seek" or "to pursue," and "末" (mò) means "tip" or "end." Together, they convey the idea of sacrificing what is essential or fundamental in favor of pursuing something trivial or insignificant.

"舍本求末" is often used to criticize shortsightedness or misplaced priorities, where people prioritize immediate gains or superficial benefits without considering the long-term consequences or addressing the underlying issues. It warns against neglecting the core or root causes of problems, as doing so may lead to ineffective solutions or exacerbate the situation.

Overall, this idiom emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of problems and maintaining a focus on what is essential or fundamental. It encourages individuals to prioritize their efforts and resources wisely, ensuring that they address the underlying issues rather than merely treating the symptoms.