基本解釋

指馬、牛、羊、豕四種馴養的牲畜。《周禮·夏官·職方氏》：“其畜宜四擾，其穀宜三種。” 鄭玄 注：“四擾，馬、牛、羊、豕。”

四擾（sì rǎo）

Pronunciation: sì rǎo

Basic Meaning: to cause disturbance or confusion in four directions

Detailed Explanation: The idiom "四擾" refers to a situation where chaos or disturbance is caused in all four directions, meaning that trouble is happening from all sides or in all aspects.

Usage Scenarios: This idiom is often used to describe a situation where one is surrounded by troubles or facing difficulties from different directions. It can also be used to express the idea that one is overwhelmed or unable to handle multiple problems at the same time.

Story Origin: The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the ancient Chinese book "Zuo Zhuan," which records historical events during the Spring and Autumn Period. In the book, there is a story about a ruler who was faced with trouble from all four sides, and this idiom was used to describe the chaotic situation he was in.

Structure of the Idiom: The idiom "四擾" is composed of two characters: "四" (sì), meaning "four," and "擾" (rǎo), meaning "to disturb." Together, they form a metaphorical expression to describe a situation of chaos or disturbance from all directions.

Example Sentences:

1. 我最近工作和家庭都有很多問題，真是四擾啊。

Translation: I have been facing a lot of problems both at work and at home recently. It's really overwhelming.

2. 這個項目的進展一直都很慢，我們被四擾得無法集中精力。

Translation: The progress of this project has been slow all along, and we are being disturbed from all sides, making it difficult for us to focus.

Memory Techniques: To remember the meaning of "四擾," you can imagine yourself standing in the middle of a crossroad, with troubles or disturbances coming from all four directions. This visual image can help you associate the idiom with its meaning.

Extended Learning: To deepen your understanding of "四擾," you can learn more about the historical context of the Spring and Autumn Period and the book "Zuo Zhuan." This will provide you with a broader cultural background and enhance your overall knowledge of Chinese idioms.

Example Sentences from Different Age Groups:

1. Children (age 8-12): 今天考試、運動會和音樂比賽都在同一天，真是四擾啊。

Translation: Today, we have exams, sports day, and a music competition all on the same day. It's really overwhelming.

2. Teenagers (age 13-18): 最近學校里發生了很多事情，老師、同學和家長都在找我談話，我感覺被四擾了。

Translation: A lot of things have been happening at school recently. Teachers, classmates, and parents are all talking to me, and I feel overwhelmed.

3. Adults (age 30-45): 我最近工作忙，家庭也有很多瑣事，真是四擾啊，感覺一下子處理不過來。

Translation: I have been busy with work recently, and there are also many trivial matters at home. It's really overwhelming, and I feel like I can't handle everything at once.