There are several Chinese figures of speech (idioms or 成语) that articulate how to handle controversial or difficult topics with tact, indirectness, or prudence. These idioms embody cultural wisdom on avoiding direct confrontation, maintaining harmony, and managing sensitive issues carefully.
Here are some key examples:
- 对牛弹琴 (“playing the lute to a cow”) describes trying to explain something to someone who will not understand or appreciate it, implying that sometimes it is futile to confront or discuss controversial matters directly.
- 杀鸡儆猴 (“killing the chicken to warn the monkey”) refers to the tactic of making an example out of someone to warn others, subtly addressing controversy through deterrence rather than open discussion.
- 画蛇添足 (“drawing a snake and adding feet”) advises against unnecessary actions that may complicate or worsen an already sensitive situation, analogous to over-elaborating on controversial issues.
- 塞翁失马 (“Sai Weng lost his horse”) suggests that what appears to be misfortune or controversy might turn into a blessing, highlighting patience and a long-term perspective in dealing with contentious issues.
- 热脸贴冷屁股 (“to press one’s warm face up against a cold butt”) humorously describes efforts to engage or appease someone who rejects or ignores such attempts, relevant for handling difficult interpersonal dynamics involving controversy.
These idioms illustrate the Chinese preference for indirectness, subtlety, and maintaining harmony rather than direct confrontation when addressing controversial topics.