老马识途
- Literal
- the old horse knows the way
- Figurative
- An experienced person knows the way; veterans' know-how is invaluable for solving problems.
Where does 老马识途 come from?
During the Spring and Autumn period, Duke Huan of Qi, accompanied by his minister Guan Zhong, led a campaign against the state of Guzhu. They set out in spring and returned in winter, and on the way back the army lost its way among the mountains, unable to find the road out. Guan Zhong proposed relying on the instinct of the old horses: "The wisdom of old horses can be put to use." They released several, and by following their tracks the army found the route again and was able to return home.
Source (出处): 《韩非子》
How is 老马识途 used? Two examples
- 这条山路他走了三十年,老马识途,跟着他准没错。
He's walked this mountain trail for thirty years; like an old horse that knows the way, follow him and you won't go wrong.
- 遇到这种棘手的谈判,还是请老张出马吧,老马识途。
For such a tricky negotiation, better let old Zhang handle it; an experienced hand knows the way.