To gather people or things together in one place, often for the purpose of a complete roundup, capture, or collective punishment; to catch them all in one fell swoop.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the Three Kingdoms period, Emperor Wen of Wei, Cao Pi, had an attendant official named Bao Xun who was known for upholding righteousness. Bao Xun frequently advised Cao Pi to focus on strengthening military defenses and developing agriculture during his mourning period, rather than indulging in hunting. Cao Pi was highly displeased with Bao Xun's outspokenness.
Later, when Bao Xun privately allowed Sun Yong, the Prefect of Chenliu, to visit the military camp, Cao Pi used this as a pretext to imprison Bao Xun. Furthermore, Cao Pi also ordered the imprisonment of three other officials who had pleaded for Bao Xun, declaring, 'Let them be ten rats in the same hole!'