not feel ashamed to ask and learn from one's subordinates
HSK 7, unknown, Very Hard
bùchǐxiàwèn(bu4chi3xia4wen4) T4
1not feel ashamed to ask and learn from one's subordinates
Listen to the audio pronunciation 3 times to gain XP
March 24, 2026
不耻下问(不恥下問)bùchǐxiàwèn(bu4chi3xia4wen4)
不耻下问 is an idiom that means not being ashamed to ask questions and seek knowledge from those who are less experienced or lower in status. It emphasizes the value of humility and the willingness to learn from others, regardless of their position.
Frequency#—DifficultyVery Hard
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, there is a strong emphasis on respect for teachers and elders, making the act of seeking knowledge from others an important virtue. This idiom reflects the Confucian value of continuous self-improvement.
Memory Tip
Imagine a wise old owl (representing knowledge) who is not ashamed to ask a young, inexperienced sparrow for advice on how to find food. The owl's humility shows that learning can come from anyone, no matter their status.
Meanings of 不耻下问
bùchǐxiàwèn(bu4chi3xia4wen4)
1not feel ashamed to ask and learn from one's subordinates
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 不耻下问
不耻下问Simplified
不恥下問Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
#—Frequency Rank
HSK 3.0L7AdvancedTOCFLL5CEFRC2
Podcast: 不耻下问
Podcast: 不耻下问
Listen to Jason & Amy break down this word for you
New here?
AI Study Notes for 不耻下问
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a wise old owl (representing knowledge) who is not ashamed to ask a young, inexperienced sparrow for advice on how to find food. The owl's humility shows that learning can come from anyone, no matter their status.
Usage Notes
This idiom is often used in formal or educational contexts to promote a culture of continuous learning and respect for all contributors. A common mistake is using it in a dismissive tone, which undermines its meaning of humility and respect.
HSK Study Tips
While 不耻下问 is not an HSK vocabulary item, it reflects concepts of humility and learning found in HSK Level 4 and above. Students should focus on understanding idiomatic expressions and their practical applications in conversations.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, there is a strong emphasis on respect for teachers and elders, making the act of seeking knowledge from others an important virtue. This idiom reflects the Confucian value of continuous self-improvement.
Common Mistakes
Learners often misuse 不耻下问 by applying it to situations where asking questions is inappropriate, such as in a competitive environment. Ensure you use it in contexts that value learning and collaboration.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 不耻下问
Premium — Locked
AI tone practice
Pro
Drill the tone of 不耻下问 with AI-powered exercises, get instant feedback, and earn XP toward mastery. Interactive tone practice is part of Pro.
New here? to save your writing progress and earn XP.
Practice writing 不耻下问 stroke by stroke. Watch the animation to learn the stroke order, then try writing it yourself.
Write correctly 3 times to earn XP
Cultural Notes for 不耻下问
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese culture, there is a strong emphasis on respect for teachers and elders, making the act of seeking knowledge from others an important virtue. This idiom reflects the Confucian value of continuous self-improvement.
🌏Cross-cultural Insight
In Western cultures, there may be more emphasis on self-reliance and individualism, whereas 不耻下问 highlights the importance of collaboration and collective learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about 不耻下问
You can say, '作为一个领导者，我不耻下问，愿意向我的团队学习。' (As a leader, I am not ashamed to ask and learn from my team.)
It's more commonly found in formal or educational settings, so use it with care in casual conversations.
Yes, this idiom is very appropriate in professional contexts to show humility and openness to learning.
