矫枉过正 overcorrection
Explanation
比喻纠正错误超过了应有的限度,过头了。
A metaphor for correcting mistakes beyond the necessary extent; going too far.
Origin Story
汉景帝时期,晁错建议削弱诸侯势力,以加强中央集权。汉景帝采纳了晁错的建议,但这一举动引发了吴王刘濞等七国叛乱,史称"七国之乱"。晁错的改革虽然初衷是好的,但由于方法过于激进,导致了严重的社会动荡,这便是矫枉过正的典型例子。七国之乱给汉景帝敲响了警钟,他最终意识到,在改革的过程中要适度,避免矫枉过正。此后,汉景帝更加注重平衡和稳妥的策略,避免了再次发生类似的动乱。
During the reign of Emperor Jing of Han, Chao Cuo suggested weakening the power of the feudal lords to strengthen central authority. Emperor Jing adopted Chao Cuo's suggestion, but this act triggered a rebellion of seven kingdoms, known as the "Rebellion of Seven States". Chao Cuo's reform, while well-intentioned, was too radical in its approach, leading to severe social unrest. This is a typical example of correcting errors excessively. The Rebellion of Seven States served as a wake-up call for Emperor Jing, who eventually realized the need for moderation in reforms to avoid overcorrection. Afterward, Emperor Jing focused on more balanced and cautious strategies, avoiding similar disturbances.
Usage
用于形容纠正错误超过限度的情况。
Used to describe situations where errors are corrected beyond the limit.
Examples
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为了追求完美,他竟矫枉过正,把事情搞砸了。
wèile zhuīqiú wánměi, tā jìng jiǎowǎng guòzhèng, bǎ shìqing gǎozále.
In his pursuit of perfection, he went too far and messed things up.
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他的批评虽然是为了改正错误,但却矫枉过正,伤害了别人的自尊心。
tā de pīpíng suīrán shì wèile gǎizhèng cuòwù, dàn què jiǎowǎng guòzhèng, shānghài le biérén de zìzūnxīn.
Although his criticism was intended to correct mistakes, it was excessive and hurt others' self-esteem.
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处理问题要适度,矫枉过正反而适得其反。
chǔlǐ wèntí yào shìdù, jiǎowǎng guòzhèng fǎn'ér shìdéqífǎn
In problem-solving, moderation is key; overcorrection often backfires.