Chinese proverbs about the future: Looking beyond the present can be both exciting and daunting. But what if there were ancient words of wisdom to illuminate the path ahead? That is why different cultures have a varied range of motivational proverbs and sayings to sail through the uncertainty of the future. Today, you will learn some cool Chinese proverbs, known for their depth and practicality, in a way that offers timeless advice applicable to navigating the ever-changing phases of tomorrow.
This Blog Includes:
- 5 Chinese Sayings About Future
- 7 Best Chinese Proverbs About the Future with Meaning
- The Best Time to Plant a Tree Was 20 years ago. The Second Best Time is Now.
- The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe In The Beauty of Their Dreams.
- Better To Be a Broken Piece Of Jade Than An Intact Piece of Pottery.
- A Single Spark Can Start a Prairie Fire.
- The Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins With a Single Step, But If I Take a Thousand Steps Backwards, When Will I Arrive?
- He Who Does Not Forget The Past Is Not Likely to Repeat It.
- Man Proposes God Disposes.
- List of Chinese Proverbs about the Future for Youth
- FAQS
Must Read: 100+ Common Proverbs with Meaning and Examples
5 Chinese Sayings About Future
By exploring these sayings, we can learn how to make thoughtful decisions and prepare for what lies ahead in life.
A team of horses will struggle to chase down a spoken word
Meaning: The saying “A team of horses will struggle to chase down a spoken word” means that once something is said, it cannot be undone or taken back, no matter how hard you try.
Punishing those who come before stops those who come after from doing something.
Meaning: “Punishing those who come before stops those who come after from doing something” means that if you punish someone for doing something, it may discourage others from doing the same thing in the future.
The player is lost; the watcher is lucid.
Meaning: “The player is lost; the watcher is lucid” means that someone who is deeply involved in something might be confused or disoriented, while an outsider observing the situation can see things more clearly and understand what’s happening better.
As distance tests a horse’s strength, time reveals a person’s character.
Meaning: The saying “As distance tests a horse’s strength, time reveals a person’s character” means that just like a horse’s strength is proven over a long journey, a person’s true character is shown over time.
Food is the first priority of the people.
Meaning: “Food is the first priority of the people” means that having enough food is the most important concern for people. Before focusing on other needs or wants, people make sure they have enough to eat.
7 Best Chinese Proverbs About the Future with Meaning
So far, you have come to know that Chinese proverbs are rich in wisdom, wittiness, and empowerment. But, hereon, you will specifically look at the proverbs on future and futuristic goals from the ancient Mandarin language for guidance.
The Best Time to Plant a Tree Was 20 years ago. The Second Best Time is Now.
This Chinese proverb about the future stresses the importance of taking action now, regardless of perceived delays. To elaborate, no matter your goals, starting today sets you on the right course for a brighter future.
The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe In The Beauty of Their Dreams.
While saying that the future belongs to those who believe in their dream, the person emphasises the power of optimism and vision. In other words, a strong belief in a desired future serves as a driving force to make it a reality.
Better To Be a Broken Piece Of Jade Than An Intact Piece of Pottery.
The meaning of this proverb promotes the value of integrity over outward appearances. Temporary difficulties can strengthen your resolve, whereas prioritising superficial success may lead to a hollow future.
A Single Spark Can Start a Prairie Fire.
This Chinese proverb tells you that even if the beginning is small it can turn in your favour in the future. In a simpler word, a single action, idea, or person can have a profound and lasting impact on the future.
The Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins With a Single Step, But If I Take a Thousand Steps Backwards, When Will I Arrive?
Although popularly known in a shorter form as ‘the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step’, in a complete sense it reminds us of the importance of consistent progress. So, do not let setbacks discourage you – persistence is key to reaching your goals.
He Who Does Not Forget The Past Is Not Likely to Repeat It.
This proverb about the future says learning from past mistakes is essential for shaping a better future. By reflecting on past experiences, both successes and failures, we can make informed decisions for the path ahead.
Man Proposes God Disposes.
Through this proverbial saying Chinese people acknowledge the limitations of human control. While planning and action are crucial, unexpected events can occur. In other words, maintaining flexibility and a positive outlook is key.
List of Chinese Proverbs about the Future for Youth
Here are some more proverbial phrases on the future especially for the younger generation you should go through.
Chinese Proverbs on Future | Meaning/Explanation |
When the wind of change blows, some people build walls, and others build windmills. | Change is inevitable, and those who embrace it, like the windmill, can harness its power for progress. |
Blessing and misfortune lie hidden within each other. | Sometimes, what appears as a setback can lead to unexpected fortune, and vice versa. |
Plant a melon, reap a melon; plant a bean, reap a bean. | In essence, it means “You reap what you sow.” |
Find more proverbial reads below!
FAQS
“If you want to be prosperous for a year, plant crops. For ten years of prosperity, plant trees. But if you want lasting prosperity for a hundred years, invest in people.”
Here are a few many important proverbs that students can refer to:
“The Future Belongs to Those Who Believe in the Beauty of Their Dreams” – People who trust in their dreams and ambitions are the ones who will succeed in the future.
“Better to Be a Broken Piece of Jade Than an Intact Piece of Pottery” – It’s better to have a small but valuable quality or skill, even if imperfect than to have something that seems perfect but is less valuable.
A well-known Chinese proverb is “A blind horse always frightens itself.” This saying teaches us that understanding our surroundings helps us stay calm and make better decisions.
This was all about the Chinese proverbs about the future and their meaning. Hope you understand the concept and know how to proceed. You can also follow the Learn English page of Leverage Edu for more exciting and informative blogs related to grammar.