original: die a tragic death in war; modern: sacrifice one's life
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesidiom
original: to die a gruesome death in war; one's brains and liver smearing the ground
literaryThe original, literal meaning describing the horrific scene of death in ancient warfare.
In ancient warfare, many soldiers died gruesome deaths, their brains and liver smeared on the ground—a horrific sight.
The verse depicts the tragic scene of carnage after the war.
idiom
to sacrifice one's life; to die for a cause; to be utterly loyal
formalThe dominant modern usage. It is a formal and solemn expression of ultimate sacrifice, often in the context of loyalty to one's country or a noble cause. Commonly used with '为了' (for).
For the independence of the country, countless heroes were willing to sacrifice their lives.
The soldiers swore that to defend their homeland, they would not hesitate to lay down their lives.
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To repay the favor of being recognized and employed, he is willing to sacrifice everything.