潛計（qián jì）

Pronunciation: qián jì

Basic Meaning: hidden plan or scheme

Detailed Explanation: 潛計 (qián jì) is an idiom that describes a hidden plan or scheme. It implies that someone is secretly planning or scheming something without others' knowledge. It usually refers to a cunning or deceitful plan.

Usage Scenarios: This idiom can be used to describe someone's hidden intentions or ulterior motives. It is often used in a negative context to criticize someone's deceptive behavior or hidden agenda.

Story Origin: The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ancient China. During the Warring States Period, the states were constantly at war with each other, and strategists played a crucial role in military operations. They often came up with hidden plans or strategies to gain an advantage over the enemy. The idiom "潛計" originates from this historical background.

Structure of the Idiom: The idiom "潛計" is composed of two characters: "潛" (qián) means hidden or concealed, and "計" (jì) means plan or scheme.

Example Sentences:

1. 他總是潛計著如何利用別人的弱點來達到自己的目的。

(He always schemes to exploit other people's weaknesses to achieve his own goals.)

2. 這個政治家的潛計被揭露后，他的聲譽受到了嚴重的損害。

(After the politician's hidden agenda was exposed, his reputation was severely damaged.)

Memory Techniques: To remember this idiom, you can associate the character "潛" (qián) with something hidden or concealed, and the character "計" (jì) with a plan or scheme. Imagine someone secretly planning something behind closed doors.

Extended Learning: To further explore the usage of this idiom, you can read books or articles about Chinese history, especially the Warring States Period. This will give you a deeper understanding of the context in which this idiom originated.

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

1. Children: 小明潛計著怎么偷吃零食，卻被媽媽發現了。

(Xiaoming was secretly planning how to steal snacks, but his mom found out.)

2. Teenagers: 她潛計著怎樣贏得比賽，以展示她的才華。

(She was secretly planning how to win the competition to showcase her talent.)

3. Adults: 公司的競爭對手潛計著如何竊取我們的商業機密。

(Our company's competitors are secretly planning how to steal our trade secrets.)