To be in the same boat and help each other; to pull together in a common cause; to stand united in adversity.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Antonym:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn Period, the states of Wu and Yue were constantly at war. Their people also regarded each other as enemies.
One day, people from both states happened to be on the same boat crossing a river. As the boat set off, they glared at each other, looking ready to fight.
However, when the boat reached the middle of the river, a fierce storm suddenly broke out, and it seemed as though the boat would capsize.
To save their lives, they put aside their animosity, helping each other and working together to stabilize the boat. Only then did they escape the natural disaster and safely reached the opposite bank.