The legend of ‘chicken ribs’ is attributed to Cao Cao, a general of the Wei dynasty during the Three Kingdoms period in China. The expression ‘chicken ribs’ was originally used to refer to something that could not bear to be thrown away but had no great value.
Narrative details.
In 219 AD, Cao Cao attacked the Shu (Shu) territory of Hanzhong, but met with fierce resistance and made no progress. Cao Cao was contemplating a retreat, and after much thought he muttered the words ‘chicken ribs’. Chicken ribs refer to ‘chicken ribs’, which are chewy but not worth eating. Hearing this remark, his subordinate Yang Shu understood Cao Cao’s intentions and began preparing to retreat. Later, Cao Cao also decided to retreat, but Yang Shu acted on his own initiative and was eventually executed.
Usage.
The term ‘chicken ribs’ is used to refer to things that are of little value but are too good to throw away. For example, it is used to describe a situation in a project or job where no great results are expected, but it would be a shame to abandon it altogether.
Example sentences.
1.In work situations.
- ‘This project is a chicken-rib, isn’t it? Continuing it won’t achieve much, but it would be a waste to stop halfway through.”
2.In everyday life
- ‘This old piece of furniture is a chicken-rib. I want to buy new furniture, but it’s still too useful to throw away.”
In this way, ‘chicken ribs’ can be used to refer to things that are too good to throw away but not of great value.
NB.
This text is based on asking the AI; the AI’s answers may not always be correct. Important information should be checked.
