一寸光阴一寸金
Yī cùn guāng yīn yī cùn jīn
"An inch of time is worth an inch of gold"
Character Analysis
One (一) inch (寸) of light and shadow (光阴) [is] one (一) inch (寸) of gold (金). The 'inch' here refers to a traditional Chinese unit of measurement.
Meaning & Significance
This proverb equates time with gold, suggesting that time is as precious as the most valuable metal. It warns against wasting time and encourages treating each moment as a valuable resource that cannot be replaced.
This is perhaps the most famous Chinese proverb about the value of time. Its simplicity and striking metaphor have made it a staple of Chinese education for centuries.
The Full Verse
The complete saying continues:
一寸光阴一寸金，寸金难买寸光阴
“An inch of time is an inch of gold, but an inch of gold cannot buy an inch of time.”
This addition reveals the deeper wisdom: while gold and time may be equal in value, they are not exchangeable. Gold, no matter how much you have, cannot purchase more time.
Historical Origin
This proverb is often attributed to Wang Zhen (王祯), a Yuan Dynasty scholar. The “inch” (寸) refers to the ancient Chinese method of measuring time using water clocks or sundials, where time was literally measured in units.
Modern Usage
This saying is frequently used:
- In schools to encourage students to study hard
- By parents teaching children about time management
- In business contexts emphasizing efficiency
- As a reminder to elderly relatives to enjoy their remaining years
Similar Expressions
- 时间就是金钱 (Shí jiān jiù shì jīn qián) - “Time is money” (a more modern, Western-influenced expression)
- 寸金难买寸光阴 (Cùn jīn nán mǎi cùn guāng yīn) - “An inch of gold cannot buy an inch of time”