







输攻墨守 is a Chinese idiom (chengyu) meaning “describes a contest between two equally matched opponents”. One on the offensive and the other on the defensive, each demonstrating their formidable skills and strategies. Literally, “Lu Ban's offense and Mozi's defense”.
During the Warring States period, Mozi, originally a carpenter, advocated for universal love and non-aggression, promoting his philosophy widely.
When the State of Chu planned to attack the State of Song, Lu Ban designed formidable siege ladders for the Chu army. Mozi urgently rushed to persuade them against this war.
King Hui of Chu arranged a contest between Mozi and Lu Ban, a mock battle of offense and defense. Mozi, known for his defensive strategies, ultimately prevailed over Lu Ban.
The King of Chu had no choice but to abandon his plan to attack Song.

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Open the tool →输攻墨守 (shū gōng mò shǒu) is a Chinese idiom (chengyu) meaning “describes a contest between two equally matched opponents”.
输攻墨守 is pronounced shū gōng mò shǒu in Mandarin Chinese.
Literally, 输攻墨守 means “Lu Ban's offense and Mozi's defense”. It is used to mean “describes a contest between two equally matched opponents”.
输攻墨守 comes from a classical Chinese story dating back to ancient China. The full story is on this page.
输:公输般,即战国时期有名木匠“鲁般”;墨:墨子,战国时期思想家。比喻攻守双方力量相仿,各显神通