知错就改 Admit and correct mistakes
Explanation
知道自己错了就改正。体现了勇于承担责任和自我完善的精神。
To correct one's mistakes once one realizes them. It demonstrates a willingness to take responsibility and improve oneself.
Origin Story
尚书令左雄推荐冀州刺史周举和冯直担任要职，冯直因贪污受贿而触犯法律，周举便上书弹劾左雄。左雄不解，询问周举为何这样做。周举引用赵宣子支持韩厥杀死自己仆人的故事来说明知错就改的重要性。左雄听后深受感动，认识到自己的错误，并撤销了对周举的处罚，最终取得了周举的谅解。左雄的知错就改体现了他虚怀若谷的胸襟和勇于承担责任的精神。这个故事也告诉我们，无论职位多高，身份多显赫，只要能认识到自己的错误并及时改正，就能赢得别人的尊重和理解。
Shangshu Ling Zuo Xiong recommended Zhou Ju and Feng Zhi, governors of Ji Zhou, for important positions. Feng Zhi violated the law due to embezzlement and bribery, so Zhou Ju submitted a report to impeach Zuo Xiong. Zuo Xiong was puzzled and asked why Zhou Ju did this. Zhou Ju used the story of Zhao Xuanzi supporting Han Jue in killing his servant to illustrate the importance of admitting and correcting mistakes. Zuo Xiong was deeply moved, realized his mistakes, and revoked the punishment of Zhou Ju, eventually gaining Zhou Ju's understanding. Zuo Xiong's willingness to admit and correct his mistakes showed his humility and courage to take responsibility. This story also tells us that regardless of one's position or status, as long as one can recognize and correct their mistakes in time, one can earn the respect and understanding of others.
Usage
用于形容一个人认识到错误后立即改正的行为，多用于褒义。
Used to describe someone who corrects their mistakes immediately after realizing them, mostly used in a positive sense.
Examples
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他知错就改，值得表扬。
tā zhī cuò jiù gǎi, zhídé biǎoyáng
He admitted his mistake and corrected it, which is commendable.
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知错就改是优秀品质的体现。
zhī cuò jiù gǎi shì yōuxiù pǐnzhì de tiǎnxian
Admitting one's mistakes and correcting them is a sign of good character and maturity.