clasp Buddha's feet in a crisis; do things in a rush at the last minute
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesverb
to make a frantic last-minute effort; to seek help at the eleventh hour
informalOften used with the full proverb '平时不烧香，急来抱佛脚'. It implies that the effort is hasty, insufficient, and done only because of immediate pressure.
He never studies normally, and only crams all night before exams.
The project is due next week; we must start preparing now and not wait until the last minute.
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It doesn't work to ignore things normally and only try to fix them in a crisis.
verb
to seek help or favor only when in urgent need
informalThis is the older meaning of the idiom, referring to social relationships. It criticizes those who only approach others for help when they need something, not maintaining the relationship beforehand.
He never contacted this relative, and only went to ask for help when he needed something.
In business, you should maintain relationships regularly; don't wait until you need funding to go ask for favors.