To mechanically imitate without originality or creativity; to copy slavishly without understanding or innovation.
在学习新技能时，如果只是依样画葫芦，很难真正掌握其精髓。
When learning a new skill, if one merely imitates without originality, it's difficult to truly grasp its essence.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
In the early Song Dynasty, Tao Gu, a Hanlin academician, believed his writing skills were superior and his talent exceptional. Hoping to distinguish himself and secure a promotion, he advised Emperor Taizu of Song to prioritize literary work.
However, Emperor Zhao Kuangyin thought Tao Gu's job was merely copying, likening it to "drawing gourds according to a model."
Tao Gu's goal was not achieved, so he inscribed a poem on the wall of his residence: "It's laughable that Hanlin Academician Tao, year after year, just 'draws gourds according to a model'."
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