Mạnh hiền còn chịu tiếng Tàng Thương

Definition
  1. Idiom (Thành ngữ):
    • "Even the virtuous Mencius had to endure the slander of Zang Cang": This idiom conveys that even a person of great virtue and wisdom is not immune to criticism, slander, or unjust blame from others. It emphasizes that no one, no matter how good, is beyond reproach.
Detailed Explanation

This idiom originates from a historical anecdote about Mencius (Mạnh Tử), a revered Chinese philosopher. Zang Cang (Tàng Thương), a favorite courtier of Duke Ping of Lu (Lỗ Bình Công), slandered Mencius by criticizing his conduct during his mother's funeral, arguing it violated ritual propriety. The Duke, influenced by this, decided not to visit Mencius. The story illustrates how malice can tarnish even the most esteemed reputation.

The core meaning is metaphorical: it is used to comment on situations where an excellent or blameless person suffers unfair accusations or gossip.

Usage Examples
  • Idiom:
    • Đừng buồn vì vài lời chỉ trích vô căn cứ. Mạnh hiền còn chịu tiếng Tàng Thương mà. (Don't be sad about a few baseless criticisms. Even the virtuous Mencius had to endure the slander of Zang Cang.)
    • Anh ấy là người lương thiện nhưng vẫn bị đồn thổi xấu, đúng là Mạnh hiền còn chịu tiếng Tàng Thương. (He is an honest man but still gets bad rumors; truly, even the virtuous Mencius had to endure the slander of Zang Cang.)
Advanced Usage & Cultural Note
  • This idiom is primarily used in written or formal spoken Vietnamese to philosophically address the inevitability of criticism. It serves as consolation or a reminder to maintain integrity despite slander.
  • It references specific historical figures (Mencius, Zang Cang), so its use implies a certain level of cultural or literary knowledge.
Synonyms (English Concepts)
  • "Even Homer sometimes nods": Suggests even the greatest make mistakes, but the Vietnamese idiom focuses on enduring unfair blame, not making errors.
  • "No good deed goes unpunished": Shares the theme of virtuous action being met with negative consequences.
  • To be maligned/slandered despite one's virtue.
Related Idioms & Expressions
  • "Chó cắn áo rách": (When it rains, it pours.) Focuses on misfortune piling up, not specifically on slander against the virtuous.
  • "Thị phi khẩu thiệt": (Gossip and malicious talk.) Refers to the general phenomenon of gossip and slander.