差强人意 Barely satisfactory
Explanation
勉强使人满意。形容还算可以,不过不怎么令人兴奋。
Barely satisfactory. Describes something that is acceptable but not particularly exciting.
Origin Story
东汉时期,光武帝刘秀问大臣吴汉的近况。有人回禀说吴汉整日督促士兵操练,准备武器,为将来的战争做准备。光武帝听后欣慰地说:‘吴汉虽算不上完美,但也勉强让人满意,像一个敌国一样强大。’这说明了吴汉虽然并非完美无缺,但他勤勉尽责,为国家作出的贡献是令人满意的。这故事体现了“差强人意”的含义,指虽然不是最好的,但也能让人接受。
During the Eastern Han Dynasty, Emperor Guangwu Liu Xiu inquired about the current situation of Minister Wu Han. Someone reported that Wu Han was daily urging soldiers to train, preparing weapons, and preparing for future wars. Emperor Guangwu said with relief after hearing this: 'Although Wu Han is not perfect, he is still barely satisfactory, as strong as an enemy country.' This shows that although Wu Han was not flawless, he was diligent and responsible, and his contributions to the country were satisfactory. This story embodies the meaning of "cha qiang ren yi", which means that although it is not the best, it is still acceptable.
Usage
这个成语通常用来形容某种情况或结果虽然不尽如人意,但也还可以接受。
This idiom is often used to describe a situation or result that, while not entirely satisfactory, is still acceptable.
Examples
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他的工作完成得还算差强人意。
ta de gongzuo wancheng de haisuan chaqiangrenyi
His work was barely satisfactory.
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这次考试成绩差强人意,还需要继续努力。
zici kaoshi chengji chaqiangrenyi,haixuyaojixunuli
The exam results were barely satisfactory; further efforts are needed.