蒲柳之姿 — “A modest expression referring to one's delicate health”

蒲柳之姿 is a Chinese idiom (chengyu) meaning “a modest expression referring to one's delicate health”. Frail constitution, or premature aging, likening oneself to the willow and cattail which wither early in autumn. It is often used out of politeness or self-deprecation. Literally, “Figure of willow and cattail”.

Frequency

蒲柳之姿 Pronunciation and Pinyin

蒲柳之姿 Character Breakdown

Stroke Order

Character	Pinyin	Strokes	Meaning
蒲	pú	14	cattail or sweet flag
柳	liǔ	9	willow tree
之	zhī	4	possessive or connective particle
姿	zī	9	appearance, posture, or demeanor

Example Sentence with 蒲柳之姿

她常自谦蒲柳之姿，认为不应承担重任，但实际上她的韧性超乎常人。

She often modestly describes herself as having a delicate constitution, believing she shouldn't shoulder heavy responsibilities, yet in reality, her resilience is extraordinary.

Origin and Story of 蒲柳之姿

During the Eastern Jin Dynasty, Yin Hao, the governor of Yangzhou, invited Gu Yue to serve in his administration. Gu Yue was a man of integrity and commitment, devoting all his efforts to his official duties. The long-term exhaustion caused his hair to turn completely white by the time he was in his thirties. Yin Hao advised him to take care of his health.

Later, Yin Hao introduced Gu Yue to Emperor Jianwen, who was of similar age. The Emperor was surprised by Gu Yue's appearance.

Gu Yue explained, saying, "Your Majesty possesses the quality of pine and cypress, enduring through all seasons, while I, with my willow and cattail constitution, cannot withstand the winds and frost." This implies that the Emperor had a robust and enduring nature, while Gu Yue felt he was frail and prone to premature decline.