virtue speaks for itself; sincere character naturally attracts followers
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesidiom
the peach and plum trees do not speak, yet a path forms naturally beneath them; a person of sincerity and virtue needs no self-promotion to attract others
literaryOriginating from Sima Qian's "Records of the Grand Historian" (《史记•李将军列传》), this idiom refers to General Li Guang, whose sincere character attracted loyal followers without him needing to boast. It emphasizes that true virtue and integrity naturally draw people in, while self-promotion is unnecessary and often counterproductive.
He is humble and keeps a low profile; virtue speaks for itself, and he has earned the deep respect of his colleagues.
This elderly professor never actively applies for projects or promotes himself, but like the peach and plum trees that do not speak, students flock to him naturally.
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High-quality products do not need excessive advertising; their excellence speaks for itself, and consumers will naturally spread the word.
Although General Li Guang was not eloquent, his sincere character naturally attracted loyalty, and his soldiers were willing to fight to the death for him.