To pay meticulous attention to one's personal appearance and attire; to smarten oneself up. It can also metaphorically refer to making superficial improvements without addressing the core issues.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Antonym:
Story:
In the late Western Han Dynasty, Wei Ao sent Ma Yuan to persuade Gongsun Shu to form an alliance against Liu Xiu. Ma Yuan and Gongsun Shu were old friends from the same hometown.
However, Gongsun Shu, who had set himself up as an emperor and adopted a grand facade, looked down upon Ma Yuan's unkempt appearance. He even sent someone to deliver official robes to Ma Yuan, advising him to pay more attention to his grooming and appearance. Ma Yuan was greatly displeased by Gongsun Shu's arrogance and superficiality. He subsequently abandoned the idea of allying with Gongsun Shu and instead went to join Liu Xiu.
Recognizing Liu Xiu's exceptional talent and strategic vision, Ma Yuan pledged his allegiance in Luoyang. Due to his numerous military achievements, Ma Yuan was later appointed as the Fubo General.