飭材（chì cái）

Pronunciation: chì cái

Basic Meaning: To select materials carefully

Detailed Explanation: This idiom refers to the act of carefully selecting and using appropriate materials. It emphasizes the importance of choosing the right materials for a particular purpose, such as construction or craftsmanship, in order to ensure the quality and durability of the end product.

Usage Scenarios: This idiom is often used to describe the process of selecting materials in various fields, including architecture, engineering, and art. It can also be used metaphorically to emphasize the importance of careful planning and preparation in any endeavor.

Story Origin: The origin of this idiom can be traced back to ancient China. In traditional craftsmanship, artisans would meticulously select and prepare the materials they needed for their work. They believed that the quality of the materials directly affected the final outcome, and therefore, they would "飭材" to ensure the best results.

Structure of the Idiom: This idiom consists of two characters: "飭" (chì) and "材" (cái). "飭" means to select or arrange, while "材" refers to materials. Together, they convey the idea of carefully choosing and using materials.

Example Sentences:

1. 作為一名建筑師，我們必須飭材，選擇適合的材料來打造高品質的建筑。

As an architect, we must carefully select materials to create high-quality buildings.

2. 這位畫家在創作時總是飭材精細，用心挑選每一支畫筆。

This painter always selects materials with great care and chooses each brush with care in his creations.

Memory Techniques: To remember the meaning of this idiom, you can imagine yourself carefully selecting the best ingredients to cook a delicious meal. Just as choosing the right materials is crucial for a successful construction project or artwork, selecting the right ingredients is essential for a tasty dish.

Extended Learning: To deepen your understanding of this idiom, you can explore related idioms and expressions that involve the concept of careful selection, such as "精挑細選" (jīng tiāo xì xuǎn), which means to choose with great care.

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

1. Children: 我要飭材，選最好的顏料畫一幅漂亮的畫。

I will carefully select materials and use the best paint to create a beautiful painting.

2. Teenagers: 在準備科學實驗時，我們需要飭材，選擇適合的實驗器材。

When preparing for a science experiment, we need to carefully select materials and choose suitable equipment.

3. Adults: 在裝修房子時，我們應該飭材，選擇高品質的建筑材料。

When renovating a house, we should carefully select materials and choose high-quality building materials.