短楫（duǎn jí）

Pronunciation: duǎn jí

Basic Meaning:

短楫 (duǎn jí) literally means "short oars." It is used as an idiom to describe someone who lacks strength or ability, or someone who is incapable of handling a situation.

Detailed Explanation:

短楫 (duǎn jí) is typically used to describe someone who is not capable of accomplishing a task or solving a problem due to their lack of strength, ability, or experience. It implies that the person is unable to handle the situation effectively and may struggle or fail.

Usage Scenarios:

短楫 (duǎn jí) can be used in various contexts to describe someone's lack of ability. It can be used to criticize someone's incompetence in a specific task or to caution against relying on someone who is not capable of handling a particular situation.

Story Origin:

The idiom "短楫" originates from an ancient Chinese story. During the Warring States period, there was a boatman who had short oars. He was unable to row the boat efficiently and struggled to move forward. This story became a metaphor for someone who lacks the necessary tools or skills to accomplish a task.

Structure of the Idiom:

The structure of the idiom "短楫" is formed by combining the characters "短" (duǎn), meaning "short," and "楫" (jí), meaning "oars."

Example Sentences:

1. 他雖然有意幫忙，但是因為經驗不足，總是短楫而航。

Translation: Although he wanted to help, he was incapable due to his lack of experience.

2. 這個項目需要很高的技術水平，他們短楫而航。

Translation: This project requires a high level of technical expertise, but they are not capable of handling it.

Memory Techniques:

To remember the meaning of "短楫," you can imagine a person rowing a boat with short oars. Visualize the person struggling to move the boat forward due to the inadequate length of the oars. This image can help you associate the idiom with the meaning of someone lacking the necessary ability or strength to accomplish a task.

Extended Learning:

To further understand the usage of "短楫," you can explore other idioms that describe someone's incompetence or limitations, such as "力不從心" (lì bù cóng xīn), meaning "the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

1. Children (age 8-12): 他雖然想幫忙，但因為年紀小，總是短楫而航。

Translation: Although he wants to help, he is incapable due to his young age.

2. Teenagers (age 13-18): 我們需要找一個有經驗的領導，否則我們會短楫而航。

Translation: We need to find an experienced leader, otherwise we will struggle to accomplish our goals.

3. Adults (age 18+): 他雖然有好的意圖，但是他的能力有限，總是短楫而航。

Translation: Although he has good intentions, his abilities are limited, and he always struggles to achieve his goals.