“上得廳堂下得廚房”這個成語，originally comes from the old Chinese proverbs, which is often used to describe someone who is both respected in society and capable in everyday life. The phrase literally translates to "to be in the hall of the palace and in the kitchen," meaning that someone is both highranking and practical. In modern times, it has become a metaphor for someone who achieves success on the surface while also excelling in the details of life.
Firstly, “上得廳堂” literally means “to be in the hall of the palace.” In ancient China, the palace was the official residence of the ruler, and reaching the hall of the palace was a great honor. In today's context, it symbolizes social status, charisma, and the ability to impress people from afar. A person who can “上得廳堂” must have a wellbuilt reputation, strong charisma, and the ability to command respect and admiration.
On the other hand, “下得廚房” literally means “to be in the kitchen.” This phrase emphasizes practicality and hard work. In today's society, being “下得廚房” means being able to handle everyday tasks with skill and determination. It reflects a person's ability to deal with challenges, manage time, and contribute to the family or society in a tangible way.
Combining the two meanings, “上得廳堂下得廚房” describes a person who is respected in society, has strong charisma and influence, but also possesses the ability to manage daily life with practicality and efficiency. Such a person can be seen as a bridge between the elite and the common people. They are not only able to talk the talk, but also do the walk.
Let's take an example of a public figure like Li Keqiang, the Premier of the People's Republic of China. Premier Li is respected by the public both in terms of his political skills and his ability to communicate complex ideas in a simple and relatable way. At the same time, he is also known for his hard work and diligent attitude in promoting economic development and improving the living standards of the people. This dual reputation and practical ability make him an outstanding representative of “上得廳堂下得廚房.”
Another example can be found in the world of entertainment. A successful actor or actress not only has a Following worldwide but also excels in their craft, consistently putting in exceptional effort to improve their performance. They are not only able to command the stage or screen with their talent but also put in the work behind the scenes to make their performances successful. This combination of fame and practical hard work is exactly what “上得廳堂下得廚房” is about.
In today's competitive and fastpaced world, being able to achieve both status and practicality is a valuable quality. It means that you can command respect and admiration from others while also contributing to the real world. This dual success is not only a personal achievement but also reflects your ability to balance success with practicality.
In conclusion, “上得廳堂下得廚房” is more than just a Chinese idiom; it is a metaphor for a balanced and successful life. It reminds us that true success is not just about being on top of the world, but also about being able to handle the everyday challenges with grace and efficiency. By achieving both status and practicality, you can create a life that is both fulfilling and meaningful.
