也要忌惮三分
“around our clan's prestige.”
THE DIALOGUE REEL
于我族的声望
“must tread lightly”
也要 忌惮三分
“around our clan's prestige.”
“The reputation of the Cui clan of Qinghe means everything.”
“Even the most powerful figures dare not provoke us, so you had better tread carefully.”
In medieval China, aristocratic clans like the Cui of Qinghe wielded immense social pedigree, sometimes rivals in prestige and authority even to the imperial throne.
LEARNING CHUNKS & PARTICLES
fear and treat with a degree of respect; hold in dread
Set phrase indicating that even adversaries or rulers must exercise substantial restraint and avoid rash offense.