黄鼠狼给鸡拜年 黄鼠狼和鸡的寓言故事

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In China, "拜年 (bài nián)" translates to "making a New Year call/visit," a cherished tradition symbolizing new beginnings and well wishes. However, when a weasel pays a "拜年" visit, it's met with suspicion rather than warmth.

The Chinese proverb "黄鼠狼给鸡拜年——没安好心 (huáng shǔ láng gěi jī bài nián méi ān hǎo xīn)" literally translates to "when a weasel makes a courtesy call to a hen, it harbors no good intentions."

Folklore recounts how a hungry weasel, disguised as a friendly visitor, would use the festive occasion to steal food from unsuspecting chickens. This proverb has thus become synonymous with hidden malice and false pretenses, akin to the English expressions "not with the best of intentions" or "mean no good."

Adapted by Bard

Source: China Daily